Mick Barlee

Mick Barlee is an Australian writer who loves coastal towns, surf culture, and stories that help kids grow confident, capable, and kind. He writes about simple life lessons, warm family moments, and the everyday magic of small seaside communities.

His Bird Rock Bay series follows the young dreamers of one little Australian bay as they learn to earn the things they wish for. In Milo's Surf Shop Summer, Milo saves, spends, and gives his way toward a sky-blue surfboard. In Sadie's Royal Beach Market, Sadie discovers that making something — and giving it away — can feel more royal than any crown. A third story, Heidi's First Wave, is on its way: about finding the courage to paddle out, and the joy of helping someone smaller find theirs too.

When he's not writing, Mick can be found exploring Australia's coastline, cooking for his family, and dreaming up new adventures in the world of Bird Rock Bay — usually with a wonky dachshund named Banjo somewhere underfoot.

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