Carl Merrison is a respected Jaru/Kija man who came WA runner up Australian of the Year - Local Hero in 2016. He worked for over ten years alongside Aboriginal youth as a mentor and coach in education, AFL and community. Carl, along with co-writer Hakea Hustler, is an award-winning author of the books Black Cockatoo (CBCA Young Reader Honour Book), Tracks of the Missing, Dirran, Beautiful Night, Loved You Then and My Deadly Boots. Hakea Hustler is an experienced teacher who has taught around Australia including in remote Aboriginal communities. Hakea believes in the power of stories for empowerment, learning and change. Hakea, along with co-writer Carl Merrison, is an award-winning author of the books Black Cockatoo (CBCA Young Reader Honour Book), Tracks of the Missing, Dirran, Beautiful Night, Loved You Then and My Deadly Boots. Samantha Campbell is a children's book illustrator and graphic designer. She is descended from the Dagoman people and lives in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) with her family. She draws from inspiration from her childhood growing up in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.