In a fun, freaky and awesome atmosphere of the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum after hours, the creativity of the young writers is unleashed.

Guided by author Paul Stafford, university student mentors, a T. rex skeleton musuem staff and volunteers, young writers weave a series of funny, spooky, weird and wild action packed stories about science, fiction and the realms of possibilities in between.

Paul Stafford has worked as a literacy consultant in primary and secondary schools throughout Australia, specialising in increasing literacy amongst reluctant male readers. He has published thirteen fiction books targeted toward children and young adults, with his latest Horror High series having recently been released by Random House Australia.

Whilst the project focuses on boys literacy, it also provides a social framework for gifted and talented young male writers to practice their craft with like minded peers.

In collaboration with Stafford, self appointed Olde Fossil, primary school teacher and vice principal of a local public school (with his pet lorikeet ‘Mate' perched on his shoulder) as well as Charles Sturt University students are working with participants as mentors. The university students receive unique training by being involved in the program.

Mate just dances when happy.

800 dead bones and fossils

+ 25 live brains
+ 3 dinosaurs
+ 2 Billion year old prehistoric life forms
+ 1000 gleaming crystals
+ 1 gothic style building
+ 1 horror comedy author Paul Stafford
+ 1 retired local primary school teacher
+ 5 teaching students mentors for Charles Sturt University
+ 1 museum education officer
+ 1 live lorikeet called ‘Mate'

= an explosive formula to ignite the imaginations of 25 boys aged 9-13!