Australian parents are breathing a sigh of relief as Book Week 2022 draws to a close.
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Coming out of COVID-19 lockdowns, this year was the first Book Week ever for many students who dressed in a variety of costumes inspired by books, movies and video games around the country.
After opening in January 2020, Lucas Primary School in Ballarat, Victoria held its first ever Book Week.
There was a Buzz Lightyear, Minions, Harry and Hermione, pirates, red-and-white striped Wallys and even a full set of teachers dressed as crayons at the Victorian school.
Indigenous character Wylah from Wylah The Koorie Warrior was a source of inspiration from Warrnambool to Cairns, according to author Richard Pritchard.
Shayla Chatfield, nine, dressed up as Wylah at Woodford Primary School.
"It represents my culture and my family," she said. "Me and Wylah have a lot of things in common because she thinks she can't do things but she can do it - and that's what I feel like."
Princesses, superheroes and classic characters were on show at Kempsey South Public School on the NSW Mid North Coast.
"It's been fantastic considering we haven't had a book parade in years because of COVID-19," said school librarian Laura Walsh.
Where's Wally, Harry Potter, fairies and Minions were among the characters that turned up at St Joseph's Primary School in Tamworth.
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At Latham Primary School in Canberra, student Ziva Brown won the Year 5/6 costume competition for her colourful phoenix outfit.
Meanwhile, the Kindergarten students were excited to dress up for their first Book Week ever.
Students, teachers, parents and even grandparents all celebrated Book Week at Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Oatley in Sydney's south.
"These community events were greatly missed during remote learning so the opportunity to get together, celebrate books and dress up was greatly appreciated by all involved. Many parents commented on the joy the parade brought to the children," principal Kylie Brackel said.