"Silly Birds" By Gregg Dreise

Gregg Dreise is a celebrated Kamilaroi author, illustrator, musician and teacher, known for his vibrant storytelling and heartfelt messages. A descendant of the Kamilaroi people from south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales, Gregg was born and raised in St George in a large, musical family where sport, poetry and storytelling were part of everyday life.

He is the author and illustrator of beloved picture books including Silly Birds, Kookoo Kookaburra and Mad Magpie, each rooted in First Nations wisdom and teaching important life lessons. His stories blend humour, music and moral guidance - often inspired by proverbs passed down through generations, such as “Kindness is like a boomerang” and “Stay calm like the surface of the water, yet strong like its current.”

Now based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Gregg works as a teacher and brings his books to life for young audiences across the country with his guitar, didgeridoo and boundless energy. A talented visual artist as well, Gregg’s artwork has been exhibited and sold internationally, and he continues to create stories that uplift, educate and inspire children everywhere.