Somerset turns back time for children’s book launch
Published on 12 June 2026
Author Donita Bundy, Toogoolawah State School student Lara Sclosa and artist Marita Reynolds with ‘You’re Not a Nonny Nu (Nanna, We Love You)’, a children’s book produced by Somerset Regional Council.
SOMERSET is well on its way to becoming a dementia friendly region, following the launch of its dementia friendly initiative and the release of a new children’s book on Thursday, 11 June.
Two hundred seniors attended the Dementia Friendly Launch at the Somerset Civic Centre in Esk, dressed in their best 70s outfits for the special occasion.
Attendees enjoyed a free meal, presentations from guest speakers and the launch of ‘You’re Not a Nonny Nu (Nanna, We Love You)’.
The children’s book tells the tale of Disco Nanna, who lives with dementia, as she and her family explore the Somerset region.
Throughout the story, the reader learns how the Somerset community has implemented dementia-friendly practices to support the ageing population.
Robert and Linda Child with Faye and Kevin Williams at the Dementia Friendly Launch.
Author Donita Bundy said it was an incredible honour to be part of the project.
“There’s a strong intergenerational connection with people in our region,” Mrs Bundy said.
“A lot of kids are actually brought up by grandparents, they’re their main carer or someone that they have a lot of contact with.
"For kids to see that dementia is a reality for some older people means they can give empathy and understanding rather than fear or ostracism
“It’s brilliant being able to communicate these truths and realities to young people in a fun, effective way that is not only entertaining but also educating.”
Artist Marita Reynolds said it was rewarding to work with Council to deliver the book.
“I’m very happy Council had the opportunity to apply for a grant to make this happen,” Mrs Reynolds said.
“People living with dementia are still the same person, they are still your grandma and grandpa, and we can work with them and support them.”
Lara Sclosa’s drawing of her nonna inspired the design for Disco Nanna, the main character in Somerset Regional Council’s new children’s book.
Disco Nanna’s character design was inspired by artwork by grade 5 Toogoolawah State School student, Lara Sclosa.
Lara was excited to see her artwork, based on her nonna, appearing in a book.
“She’s pretty cool, she’s always listening to 70s bangers,” Lara said.
“I hope this book helps people understand what dementia is.”
Somerset Councillor and Social Plan Advisory Committee Chair, Michael Bishop, said the event celebrated the senior community while building understanding around the supports available to the ageing population and caregivers.
“We’re so grateful for the Somerset community’s support for this initiative and to businesses and organisations for their willingness to grow and become dementia friendly,” Cr Bishop said.
“This is only the start of our mission to becoming a dementia friendly region, and we hope Somerset will continue supporting us on this journey.”
‘You’re Not a Nonny Nu (Nanna, We Love You)’ will be distributed to primary schools across Somerset over the coming weeks and will be made available at Somerset Libraries.
Somerset Regional Council’s dementia-friendly initiative is supported by the Queensland Government Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety following a successful application for $42,200 in funding through the Age-friendly Community Development Grant program.
Yvonne Boon and Sandy Devine looking at drawings created by Somerset students depicting their favourite older persons.