Tom March has been “working the Web” and contributing “Bright Ideas for education” since 1994. It all started with WebQuests but now Tom focuses on supporting systemic change toward digitally enhanced personal learning. Tom works with schools and teachers to move into the Next Era of Education and is a qualified trainer in Understanding by Design. Tom also joined Hobsons at the beginning of 2015 as the lead consultant for teaching and learning and has since become Director of Innovation K12.

Hamish Curry is a specialist in designing more engaging libraries and curriculum in the education sector, and leads creative development on world-renowned events and unconferences. He is based in NoTosh Australia’s branch and works with schools, galleries, museums, cultural institutions and learners across Australia and overseas.

Tristan Bancks is a children’s and teen author with a background in acting and filmmaking. His books include the My Life series, Mac Slater Coolhunter and Two Wolves, a crime-mystery novel for middle-graders. Two Wolves won Honour Book in the 2015 Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards and has been shortlisted in the YABBA Children’s Choice Awards. Tristan is excited by the future of storytelling and inspiring others to create.

Nadia Wheatley is an Australian writer, whose work includes picture books, novels, biography and history. In 2014 she was admitted by the University of Sydney to the degree of Doctor of Letters (honoris causa), in recognition of ‘her exceptional creative achievements in the field of children’s and adult literature, her work as an historian and her contribution to our understanding of Indigenous issues, cultural diversity, equity and social justice and the environment through story’. Nadia’s latest picture book, Flight, is illustrated by the internationally renowned Armin Greder. As refugee families around the world flee their homes, the book’s message is particularly timely.

Sean Avery is a teacher, sculptor, writer and illustrator. He is best known for his animal sculptures made from CDs and electronic waste. He is a Year 1 teacher at Challis Community Primary School in Armadale and has published two books All Monkeys Love Bananas and Harold and Grace.