Published on Wednesday, 4 June 2025 at 10:00:28 AM
The much-loved literacy program, ‘Outdoor Storytime, Under the Yarning Tree’ has officially returned for the 2025 winter season, bringing families, friends, culture and community together through the power of storytelling.
The program was born from a pilot event held on Indigenous Literacy Day in 2022, with the aim of creating a welcoming, culturally safe and accessible space for families to gather and connect.
Following its success, the initiative has grown into a yearly program delivered during the cooler months, thanks to continued and generous support from the State Library of Western Australia and Better Beginnings.
Led by the Town’s Libraries team, Outdoor Storytime, Under the Yarning Tree has quickly become a community favourite, designed to promote early literacy, strengthen cultural connection, and support families with young children.
Each month, children and families gather outdoors to enjoy stories, songs, sensory play, and craft activities, many of which are led by local Aboriginal presenters who share stories in their language or speak about their cultural heritage.
In addition to providing this program to the Hedland community, the Hedland Libraries staff also work with remote community schools and local early childhood education centres to ensure they too are benefitting from the program.
Every child receives a copy of the featured book to take home, encouraging continued reading with their family.
Mayor Peter Carter said the initiative highlighted the Town’s commitment to creating more inclusive opportunities for everyone to engage, connect and participate.
“Under the Yarning Tree is a wonderful example of what happens when we work together to create spaces where everyone feels welcome.” Mayor Carter said.
“It’s more than storytime - it’s a way to support early childhood development, provide information on local services, celebrate Aboriginal culture, and bring people together in meaningful ways.”
The program supports key objectives in the Town’s Strategic Community Plan, particularly in the areas of liveability, diversity and inclusion.
The program also aligns with the Library Strategy - including strategic directions of ‘Libraries for all’ and ‘Libraries for understanding our Past and Preparing for Our Future’.
With 18% of Hedland’s population identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, the program has been a significant step in fostering cultural connection and community pride.
The sessions are designed to be inclusive and flexible, with activities catering to a range of ages and abilities.
For younger children, it’s a chance to build on fine motor skills or foundational skills like sitting attentively and socialising, while older children can enjoy more challenging craft and interactive storytelling.
Ivy Chen, Children’s Program Coordinator at Hedland Libraries said the response from both the community and staff had been positive.
“This initiative has brought our team closer together, and we’re incredibly proud of the connections we’re building with families and community organisations. It’s a joy to see children light up with curiosity and confidence.”
The program is delivered in collaboration with the BHP Pilbara Education Partnership, and Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation, with many other local organisations lending their support.
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