2025 Premier’s Reception

25 November 2025

• 2025 Reception,
• RECEPTION

On Friday, 21 November 2025, representatives from 30 high-achieving schools across South Australia gathered at The Sanctuary, Adelaide Zoo, to be congratulated for their outstanding efforts in the 2025 Premier’s Reading Challenge.

Attendees were delighted with a reading by the Hon Blair Boyer, Minister for Education, Training and Skills, who shared an excerpt from his favourite childhood book, The Time Machine by H.G. Wells. Minister Boyer discussed how books can act as time machines, transporting readers to different places and nurturing their imagination. Subsequently, MC and PRC Ambassador Mark Soderstrom invited two Year 5 students—Elise from Bordertown Primary School and Mahmoud from Unley Primary School—to share their favourite books from the Premier’s Reading Challenge list. Both students enthusiastically explained why reading is a favourite pastime and how much they enjoyed participating in the PRC.

The Hon Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the joy and importance of reading. He encouraged students to continue participating in the PRC throughout their schooling, using Morgan from Thebarton Senior College as an example. Morgan received her Reader for Life 14 certificate this year, recognising her ongoing commitment to the Challenge.

The 2026 Premier’s Reading Challenge posters, designed by budding artist Shakaya Butler and established artist Denes Nagy, were officially unveiled. School representatives were introduced by authors and PRC Ambassadors, Dr Helen Edwards and Mike Lucas, and were congratulated for their school’s involvement in the Challenge. They were presented with a certificate and a bag of books for their library.

The proceedings were followed by a delicious morning tea, providing an opportunity for guests to mingle with Premier’s Reading Challenge Ambassadors and other guests. For those who had the time, entry into the zoo allowed them to enjoy the rest of the day exploring and viewing the animals.

Congratulations to all the invited schools. We look forward to welcoming a new group of participants in 2026.

Here are some of the highlights from the day …