once upon con + awards gala
A day (and night!) full of inspiration and celebration
Date: Saturday October 11, 2025
Times: 9-3 and 6-11
Location: Taylors Lakes Hotel
7 Melton Hwy, Taylors Lakes, Melbourne
A magical day (and night!) for children's picture book creatives.
Whether you're a self-published author, an aspiring writer, or a creative professional in the world of kids’ literature — this is your time to learn, be inspired, and celebrate your work in a supportive, vibrant community.
A DEDICATED EVENT TAILORED JUST FOR INDEPENDENT CHILDREN'S BOOK CREATORS ↓
LITTLE IVORY HAUS PRESENTS:
ONCE UPON CON -
children's book
creator conference
Date: Saturday October 11
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Taylors Lakes Hotel
Join us for a full day of networking, education, and inspiration, featuring an incredible lineup of speakers who will empower and educate you on everything children's picture books.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, this event is packed with insights to help you succeed!
special keynote speaker - mem fox🌟
plus the wonderful scott stuart
industry experts
line-up of inspiring guest speakers
opportunity to pitch to traditional publisher (optional online extra)
meet with illustrators
Vendor trade tables & exclusive discounts
fully catered (morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, coffee/tea)
"AUSTRALIAN PICTURE BOOK AUTHOR ROYALTY"
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
MEM FOX
We are BEYOND THRILLED to welcome
Mem Fox as our keynote speaker for Once Upon Con 2025!
Mem will be kicking off our day with a fabulous keynote presentation that is full of wisdom, wit, and heart.
Whether she’s speaking about writing, creativity, literacy, or the wild ride of publishing, one thing is guaranteed - you’ll leave feeling absolutely inspired.
With more than 40 beloved picture books to her name, Mem's words have touched children and families around the world.
Mem’s journey began with the iconic Possum Magic, which was rejected five times over nine years, and if that's not a reminder to us all that perseverance pays off, I don't know what is!
LEARN & BE INSPIRED BY THE WONDERFUL
special guest
scott stuart
We’re so excited to welcome Scott Stuart to Once Upon Con 2025!
Scott is a best-selling children’s book author, illustrator, speaker, and proud dad whose work is all about empowering kids to embrace who they are.
His books have been shortlisted for CBCA and ABIA awards, translated across the globe, and his heartfelt messages on parenting, identity and inclusion have reached millions.
From his viral videos on joyful parenting to brilliant picture books like My Shadow is Purple, Scott is a passionate advocate for creating safe, affirming spaces where kids can truly shine as their authentic selves.
He’s warm, witty, and full of heart, and what a privilege it will be to learn from him, laugh with him, and leave feeling inspired at Once Upon Con.
EVENT TICKET OPTIONS
Conference
FROM $360
Inspiring keynote presentation by beloved author Mem Fox
Learn from industry experts
Insider tips from traditional publishers
Connect with like-minded authors, illustrators, editors, and creatives
Vendor trade tables & exclusive discounts
Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea
Member Discounts
Payment Plan Available
SLVR gala
From $180
Up to 3 book entries into the SLVR Children's Book Awards
Delicious three-course dinner
Beer, wine, and soft drinks served all night
Book Awards presentation
Live entertainment by Dave Van Elst
Dancing, networking, and celebrating!
Member Discounts
Payment Plan Available
conference + gala
from $500
Includes everything listed in both the Conference and Gala packages
Save when you buy both together in one ticket
Payment plan available
Member Discounts
Payment Plan Available
SLVR Children's Book Awards
CHILDREN'S BOOK
AWARDS GALA
Date: Saturday October 11
Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Taylors Lakes Hotel
Celebrate excellence in the self-publishing industry with an elegant and joy-filled gala night.
We’ll swap notebooks for champagne flutes and celebrate the incredible achievements of self-published children's book authors & illustrators in style.
This is a night to recognise your creativity, dedication, and the bold decision to back yourself!
Up to 3 entries into the Children's Book Awards
Delicious three-course dinner
Beer, wine & soft drink flowing all night
Live entertainment by Dave Van Elst
Dancing, mingling and celebrating!
"Seriously legit, very real"
children's book awards
award categories
most heartwarming
For the book that gives you all the feels. If your story inspires kindness, empathy, hope, or brings a tear to the eye—this is your category. Sweet, meaningful, and full of heart.
writing excellence
This category recognises excellence in storytelling, including strong narrative structure, engaging language, and age-appropriate tone. Whether it's lyrical, funny, heartfelt, or clever—this award honours outstanding writing.
big feelings and beyond
For books that help children understand, express, and navigate their emotions or physical health. This category recognises stories that support mental health, emotional and psychical resilience, and wellbeing, including topics like anxiety, body awareness, healthy habits, mindfulness, grief, and more.
picture perfect
This one’s all about the visuals. For books that shine through their artwork—whether hand-drawn, painted, or digitally illustrated. Judges will consider style, technique, originality, and how well the illustrations enhance the story.
celebrating diversity
Celebrating books that champion inclusivity and representation. This category is for stories that reflect diverse voices, cultures, abilities, genders, and identities—books that help all children feel seen, valued, and understood.
most humorous book
We’re looking for giggles, chuckles, and full-on belly laughs. This category celebrates books with humour, quirky characters, playful storytelling, or unexpected silliness that kids love.
for greater good
This award honours creators using their work to spark change, raise awareness, or give back to communities.
book of the year
The standout favourite. A picture book that excels across the board. This award celebrates a title that is exceptional in storytelling, illustration, design, and overall impact. It can be about any topic, any theme.
EVENT TICKET OPTIONS
Conference
from $360
Inspiring keynote presentation by beloved author Mem Fox
Learn from industry experts
Insider tips from traditional publishers
Connect with like-minded authors, illustrators, editors, and creatives
Vendor trade tables & exclusive discounts
Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea
Member Discounts
Payment Plan Available
SLVR gala
From $180
Up to 3 book entries into the SLVR Children's Book Awards
Delicious three-course dinner
Beer, wine, and soft drinks served all night
Book Awards presentation
Live entertainment by Dave Van Elst
Dancing, networking, and celebrating!
Member Discounts
Payment Plan Available
conference + gala
from $500
Includes everything listed in both the Conference and Gala packages
Save when you buy both together in one ticket
Payment plan available
Member Discounts
Payment Plan Available
who are these epic events for?
Children's Picture Book Authors
Children's Book Illustrators
Aspiring Children's Picture Book Authors
Aspiring Children's Book Illustrators
Dreamers & Doers
Industry Professionals
WITH THANKS TO OUR WONDERFUL
EVENT PARTNERS
"seriously legit, very real"
Children's book awards
Celebrating, acknowledging, and encouraging excellence in self publishing
The aim of the 2025 SLVR Children's Book Awards is to recognise & celebrate the outstanding work of self-published creatives. In an industry that often overlooks self published books, we're here to shake things up — because if the industry won’t acknowledge the brilliance of self-published books, we’ll do it ourselves.
The SLVR Children's Book Awards are all about celebrating excellence in self-published children’s picture books.
This is more than just an award, it's a chance for self-assessment, promotion, marketing, networking, and, most importantly, celebrating your incredible achievement as a self-published author.
All Gala ticket holders are invited to nominate their own self-published children’s picture book or nominate another author’s work.
You can submit up to three entries
requirements
Books must be self-published (not published by a traditional publisher or vanity press)
Must have been published between 2022–2025
Must have a valid ISBN
Must exist in printed form (hardcover, paperback, or board book)
To enter, fill out the nomination form and submit a digital copy of your book (PDF or eBook format) by July 31, 2025.
If your book is selected as a finalist, you’ll be asked to send a printed copy to our team.
If you’d like your book returned, please include a pre-paid return postage label.
judging criteria
All entries will be judged by a panel of independent professionals who will assess:
Cover design
Story content and structure
Writing quality
Illustrations
Overall appeal
Suitability for the nominated category
While the awards are light-hearted and fun in nature, judging will be done fairly and with care.
winners receive
A trophy and certificate presented live at the gala
100 premium embossed award stickers for your printed books
Announcement across our website and social platforms (audience 8,500+)
Digital award logos for use on your book cover, website, social media, and marketing materials
Epic bragging rights for life!
key dates
July 31 2025 – Nominations close
August 31 2025 – Finalists notified
October 11 2025 – Winners announced at the Gala Awards Night
Frequently Asked Questions
is there accommodation nearby?
There is a hotel right next to the venue - Quality Hotel Taylors Lakes
Mention the "Little Ivory Haus" event when booking for a discount (while available)
P: 03 9217 9500 www.taylorslakeshotel.com.au
why enter the awards?
Because it's fun and your book deserves the attention!
Winners receive:
A trophy and certificate
Announcement across our website and social media (audience of 8,500+)
Premium award stickers to place on your printed books
Digital award logos for use on your book cover, website, social media, and marketing materials
Lifetime bragging rights as a recognised award-winning author!
whAT IS THE DRESSCODE?
For the conference, think smart casual, or whatever it is that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
For the awards gala, think cocktail or semi-formal - whatever makes you feel fabulous!
We don't believe in telling people what to wear - so please wear what makes you comfortable!
who are the speakers at the conference?
We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the legendary Mem Fox as our special keynote speaker to kick off the morning with insight, warmth, and wisdom.
Following Mem’s keynote, we’ll be joined by an incredible lineup of authors, illustrators, and industry professionals who will share their knowledge and experience throughout the day, including the absolutely brilliant, wonderful, kind-hearted Scott Stuart.
The full speaker lineup and schedule will be announced closer to the event—stay tuned!
can I get discount if attending both events?
Absolutely!
There are also payment plans available.
can i bring my kids?
As much as we adore children and dedicate our work to creating books that inspire and educate them - both the conference and gala are strictly 18+ events.
This ensures all attendees can fully engage with the professional development, networking, and celebration without distraction.
We hope you enjoy a well-deserved day (and night!) just for you.
are tickets refundable?
Tickets are not refundable, but if you can no longer attend, you're welcome to pass your ticket onto someone else. Please contact us ASAP to update the booking details.
see you there!
saturday october 11
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