The story of Penguin Bloom has captured hearts all around the globe, and Cessnock will soon have the opportunity to hear all about the world-famous magpie.
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Penguin was nursed back to health by a Sydney family who were coping with their own tragic accident.
Sam Bloom was paralysed after falling through a faulty railing from a rooftop patio while on holiday in Thailand in 2013.
Shortly after her accident, Mrs Bloom’s son Noah found the tiny magpie, who had been blown out of her nest.
The family-of-five were quickly captivated by the little bird they dubbed Penguin.
Mrs Bloom’s husband Cameron, a photographer, captured Penguin’s journey through his lens and social media accounts.
Penguin now has 154,000 followers on Instagram, and scriptwriters are working with the Blooms to turn their story into a major film starring Naomi Watts and produced by Reese Witherspoon.
Mr Bloom collaborated with best-selling author Bradley Trevor Grieve (The Blue Day Book) to turn Penguin’s story into a book.
Penguin Bloom: the odd little bird who saved a family won Illustrated Book of the Year award at the 2017 Australian Book Industry Awards.
Ten percent of proceeds from the book’s sales are donated to Spinal Cure Australia – which works towards finding a cure for spinal cord injury paralysis through the funding and promotion of medical research.
The Blooms now combine their love of travel with sharing their compelling story and raising awareness and funds for Spinal Cure Australia.
“The themes resonate with people around the world,” Mr Bloom said.
“We love country Australia, travelling around and meeting new people.
“And Sam never thought she'd get on a plane again...it's proved to her that she can still travel, and it’s helped with her healing.”
The Blooms will speak at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, June 17 at 2pm.
Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent is encouraging the community to support this event.
“People all over the world have fallen in love with the stunning and deeply personal images of this rescue bird and her human family. They have been inspired by this story of extraordinary hope and resilience,” he said.
Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing on the day.
Entry is $10 adults and $5 children (cash only, payable at the door), with all proceeds to be donated to Spinal Cure Australia.
Tea, coffee and biscuits plus a wine tasting by Kelman Vineyard will be provided.
To reserve your place, phone CPAC on 4993 4266.