By Molly Magennis
A new children’s book has been released by a local Hobsons Bay author, celebrating an iconic part of Williamstown’s history.
Seymour the Seaplane is written by Barbara Audas, who co-owns Melbourne Seaplanes with her husband Brett.
The duo have operated the business for the past six and a half years, and have a deep passion for flying and meeting people who come to visit the historic maritime town.
It was this passion that sparked Mrs Audas’ desire to write a children’s book, with the central character Seymour based on The Spirit of Williamstown, the seaplane that is used to take customers up in the air.
Mrs Audas said she has always had a passion for writing, but officially began writing the book two years ago.
“I have a little miniature seaplane down outside our terminal in Williamstown and I just saw how much delight it gave children, because some of the children come and sit in him if they’re small enough, and twirl the propeller around,” she said.
The constant lockdowns during 2020 and 2021 were tough for Melbourne Seaplanes, who heavily rely on tourists to keep their business afloat.
“It was very tough for us, especially as you know, in the tourism sector, and also just being stuck at home like everybody,” Mrs Audas said.
She held an official book launch for Seymour the Seaplane on March 20, where she had a book signing and face painting outside the terminal.
The success Seymour the Seaplane has had so far has filled Mrs Audas with pride. Despite only having been launched three weeks ago, it has already been sold to readers in New Zealand, Ireland and the U.S.
“I’m hoping it’s going to bring a lot of people to Williamstown because once people read the book, you know, they’ll be encouraged to come and visit,” she said.
Seymour the Seaplane can be purchased via the Melbourne Seaplanes website.
Details: www.melbourneseaplanes.com.au/
