Kids in cheers and tears

By Bridget Cook
STUDENTS at St John’s Regional College have been in stitches of laughter and captivated by true crime stories as part of the school’s literary breakfasts.
Two guest speakers addressed staff and students over the past two weeks as part of the breakfasts hosted by the school library.
Performer, writer and producer Brian Nankervis entertained his audience with comedy while crime author Vikki Petraitis intrigued them with her compelling true stories.
Mr Nankervis gave a humorous presentation on ‘All things ridiculous’. Mr Nankervis is known from his roles on shows including ‘Hey Hey it’s Saturday’ and ‘RockWiz’. He has also taught at schools around Melbourne and has been a waiter at Melbourne theatre restaurant ‘The Last Laugh’.
Ms Petraitis spoke honestly about how she had researched and written a number of Australian true crime stores over the past 20 years. Her book on Frankston serial killer Paul Denyer has become a classic of the genre.
St John’s head librarian Lee Geraghty said Ms Petraitis had students and staff spellbound as she spoke about her experiences.
On both mornings students had the opportunity to share breakfast with their teachers and peers.