Funkybooks brings music, dance & fun to the Chamber

Chris Collin and his partner Nadia Rabiller

by Cameron Outridge

Chris Collin’s journey from civil construction engineer to published children’s author took many by surprise – but not one of his former colleagues. 

When Chris first announced his new path, a council inspector jokingly declared in a company-wide email that Chris “wouldn’t have any problems writing fiction” based on some of his progress claims.

Now, he and his partner Nadia Rabiller, who has a background in disability services, are known for Funkybooks, their unique “musical picture books” — combining traditional storytelling with orchestral music and songs to help engage children of all ages and abilities in literacy. 

“It’s harder and harder to get kids engaged in reading these days with all the other white noise around,” Chris said. His creative solution? Make books fun, inclusive, and interactive. “All of our books come with an incredible digital package of the narrated story to a full orchestral backing score plus a song, all performed by the author.”

The presentation wrapped up with Chamber volunteers in costumes leading the crowd in the Funky Chicken song and dance. It all happened at the Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catchup on July 3, hosted by Ken Mills Toyota.

• Funkybooks titles are available locally at Banksia Espresso. More info: funkybooks.com.au |info@funkybooks.com.au |  0429 326 794