Gregg Dreise
Gregg Dreise is the author and illustrator of Silly Birds, Kookoo Kookaburra and Mad Magpie. These stories are about teaching morals. Silly Birds is based on the saying, “It’s hard to soar like an eagle when you are surrounded by turkeys”. Kookoo Kookaburra is based on the saying, “Kindness is like a boomerang - if you throw it often, it comes back often. If you never take the chance to throw it, it never comes back”. Mad Magpie is based on the words of wisdom, “Stay calm like the surface of the water, yet strong like its current. And know that there is a song out there for you.”
A descendant of the Kamilaroi tribe, from south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales. He was born and raised in St George, Queensland and moved to Noosa during high school. He is the youngest of eight in a family that loved sport, music and poetry (one of those families where everyone sings, and passes guitars around at get-togethers). Gregg’s mother (Lyla Dreise-Knox) has always inspired him to write. Her poetry has entertained the family (as well as the odd magazine and newspaper readers) for many decades.
Gregg is currently a teacher in the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. He has completed writing four more picture books waiting their turn for publishing; and is also working on a chapter book for upper primary. For Gregg, the most exciting part of writing, is going to schools and libraries with his didgeridoo and guitar, with the aim to educate an audience filled with smiles. He was very excited to take his books to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair in Italy this year. His book Silly Birds was on the 2015 Premier’s Reading Challenge year 1 to 3 booklist and was shortlisted and then won the 2015 Speech Pathology Australia - Book of the Year award.
Gregg has been an artist most of his life, following in the footsteps of many family members. His paintings have been sold all over the world. His recent international art award was for the last painting in the book Silly Birds.
Testimonials
Gregg delivered an outstanding presentation that was both inclusive and highly engaging. From the moment he began, he created a welcoming environment where all students felt comfortable and eager to participate. His ability to connect with the audience ensured that every child was involved and excited to learn.
A highlight of Gregg's presentation was the way he thoughtfully wove his cultural identity and knowledge into his storytelling. He shared his experiences in a way that was accessible and meaningful for the children, allowing them to both understand and appreciate new perspectives. His storytelling approach made learning enjoyable while also leaving a lasting impact.
Students were captivated throughout the session, and it was clear they were not only entertained but also gaining valuable insights. Gregg's energy and passion carried throughout the entire presentation, keeping students engaged and curious.
All staff and students expressed how much they enjoyed the experience, and the excitement following the session was evident. Gregg's presentation was both educational and inspiring, and we look forward to working with him in 2027.
Petrie State School - June, 2026Gregg was very entertaining and educational. What a privilege it was to have him present at our recent Outdoor Classroom Day. He had the kindy students totally engaged with laughter filling the air. I loved how he integrated cultural language into his stories throughout the day. Loved the new Greedy Frog story and the actions that went with it.
Nudgee Beach Environmental Education Centre - May, 2026Gregg was engaging, personable, knowledgeable, and modified how he presented to different age-groups. I was very pleased that Gregg signed and illustrated every book (of his) that the library possessed with personalised messaged - this is something that our students will enjoy exploring and reflect on when they read his books in the future.
Thornleigh West Public School, NSW - June, 2026Our kids were throroughly engaged and focussed with Gregg's presentation from beginning to end. He adapted to the different age groups within our school very efficiently.
Saint Patrick's PS, Lochinvar - June, 2026It was outstanding. He was an extremely effective speaker. He was able to present his content in a very age appropriate manner. He was excellent at explaining things in a way that engaged students, but he also had excellent control of behaviour management and could settle students quickly and effectively. The students absolutely loved his performance. A number of students went home and with their parents have ordered his books online so they can enjoy them at home. This is a great reflection of this interest that the students had from this present.
St. Peter's CPS, Caboolture - June, 2026
Super Snake
Where's My Baby?
Hello and Welcome
My Culture and Me
Common Wealth
A Boat of Stars
Today's Sun
Cunning Crow
I Open the Door
Kookoo Kookaburra
Mad Magpie
Silly Birds
Queensland
Speaker type
- Author
- Illustrator / Designer
- Poet
- Storyteller / Performer
Audience
- Prep - Year 2
- Year 3-6
- Year 7-9
- Adult
- Teachers/PD