Discover crackling good fun these holidays as the Crackle Creature Trail takes young explorers from the art gallery to the zoo.
Young visitors and their families can immerse themselves in ‘The Crackle’, on display in Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery’s ImaginArts space, bringing to life Karen Gardam’s children’s book.
There are activities to enjoy and larger-than-life characters on the walls based on Karen’s original paintings for the book.
The Crackle was inspired by Karen’s travels around Australia and is the latest in her series of books telling stories from each state and territory.
Karen said the activity space was designed to engage all the senses of visitors.
“We’re trying to, not just look at it as a book, but something that you can immerse yourself into with your life, emotions and sounds and smells,” she said.
“The Crackle is about the wet season, and the crackle is the black cockatoos who actually sing before it rains.
“So, the animals have gone to find out when the wet season is about to come.”
Visitors to the exhibition can make a Crackle Creature Trail passport and embark on a journey to Alexandra Park Zoo to meet the animals featured in the story.
Fun activities to complete the passport can be enjoyed at both locations.
Karen said she feels a special connection to wildlife having grown up in the country in Victoria.
“I only every really paint wildlife,” she said.
“I grew up in the bush… we were isolated, and I made friends with all the animals.
“And I guess that’s given me a connection to it a little bit better because I hung out with them.”
The Crackle is on display at Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery now until 24 January 2026.
Karen’s picture books ‘The Crackle’, ‘In My Nana’s Garden’ and ‘Eliot’ are available for purchase in the gallery store.
The Crackle Creature Trail passports are available in the gallery’s ImaginArts exhibition and activity space.
Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery will be closed from 1 pm Wednesday 24 December, opening again at 9.30 am on Friday 2 January 2026.
