Kids’ Weedy Read Released for Christmas

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Weedbusters mascot Woody Weed joins Jack Bluett (4) and Conor Bluett (4) for a weedy read.

N e w s R e l e a s e

…working together to protect New Zealand
www.weedbusters.org.nz

29 November 2006
For immediate release

Kids’ Weedy Read Released for Christmas

Those looking for a children’s book for Christmas with an environmental message are in luck, with a new Weedbusters storybook launched for the festive season.

“When the Jones Kids Came to Town: A Weedbusters Adventure” is already proving a hit with the four to ten year old age group. It features artwork by Waikato artist Janet Hodgetts, and tells the story of the fictional Jones siblings who rescue their local gully from the invading Garden Thugs.

“This will be the first New Zealand book for children specifically about weed issues,” National Weedbusters Coordinator Carolyn Lewis said. “It’s a really fun read, as well as having a strong environmental message.”

Ms Lewis said Weedbusters came up with the idea of the storybook to promote the message about getting rid of environmental weeds, and to explain what New Zealand children could do themselves to assist.

Weeds are one of the most serious threats facing the environment, with most weed species starting off as ornamental garden plants that ‘jump the fence’ and invade natural areas, causing major damage to ecosystems.

“The Jones kids call on New Zealand’s Weedbusters mascot, Woody Weed, whanau and friends to help them get rid of the invaders and return the gully to full environmental health,” says Ms Lewis. “There is a strong message there that even children can help protect our environment from invasive plants.”

Ms Lewis worked on the storyline with Dr Ian Popay from the Department of Conservation in Hamilton, and Wendy Mead from Environment Waikato.

“Janet Hodgetts created some truly fantastic artwork that must be among the best work produced for a New Zealand children’s storybook,” Ms Lewis said. “By adding native species, and weeds that are a problem here, Janet has created a look for this book that is distinctively New Zealand.”

The book was officially launched by Chris Carter, Minister for Conservation, in Wellington last month.

“When the Jones Kids Came to Town: A Weedbusters Adventure” is retailing at $10.00 plus postage and can be ordered from info@weedbusters.org.nz

ENDS

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