More than 100 primary school students from across the Cootamundra electorate have put their creativity and craft skills to the test in a Book Week bookmark design competition, with six outstanding entries recognised as winners and runners-up. The competition was organised by Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, to celebrate Book Week and highlight the importance of literacy and reading from an early age. Inspired by this year's Book Bugs theme, students from Kindergarten to Year 6 were invited to design a bookmark featuring butterflies, ladybugs, spiders and other small creatures that reflected both a love of reading and nature. Ms Cooke said the standard of entries was exceptionally high, making the judging process difficult. "My office has been overwhelmed with so many thoughtful, colourful and creative entries, and I want to congratulate every student who took the time to design a bookmark as part of this year's Book Week celebrations," Ms Cooke said. "Reading and literacy are among the most important skills a child can develop, not only for success in the classroom but throughout their lives. "There is no healthier habit for growing minds than picking up a book, and it was wonderful to see so many students combining their creativity with their love of reading. "Choosing the winners was incredibly difficult, but I am proud to announce the students whose designs captured the theme in such engaging ways." 2026 Book Week Bookmark Competition Winners Kindergarten to Year 2 Winner: Atharah, Naradhan Public School Runner-Up: Teddy, Young Public School Years 3-4 Winner: Evie, St Anne's Temora Runner-Up: Chase, Murrumburrah Public School Years 5-6 Winner: Olivia, St Michael's Runner-Up: Anastasia, St Mary's Primary School, Young Each winning design will be professionally printed and distributed through aged care facilities across the electorate, giving residents a special keepsake created by local students. Winners will also receive a gift in recognition of their achievement. Ms Cooke thanked students, teachers, school staff, parents and carers for supporting Book Week activities and encouraging young people to discover the lifelong benefits of reading. "Congratulations to all of our winners and to every student who entered the competition," Ms Cooke said. "I wish all students, parents and educators a wonderful Book Week and hope these celebrations inspire even more children to discover the joy of reading and the endless opportunities that books can provide." Office of Steph Cooke
