A decline in active members of the local branch of the Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) has forecast a grim outlook for the organisation who are responsible for next week’s Kids Day Out.

Spokeswoman and Balgownie children's book author Demelza Haines said the family friendly day of activities and workshops could be the last for the region.

“We have a lot of people who love what we do and love coming to the events … but no-one’s really come forward wanting to actively help organise and run them,” she said. 

Read More: New Oak Flats cafe commits to employ people of varying abilities

The aim of the CBCA is to promote literacy and a general love for books, reading and illustration. The Illawarra/South Coast branch is responsible for many initiatives to increase access to literature such as author visits to schools, book drives and donations.

The decision to cease operation will be made late February at the branch’s annual general meeting.

Ms Haines said it would be a “do or die” meeting though she hoped to find around 10 people willing to take up leadership positions before then.

“We’re a small group but we’re a mighty group,” she said. “It’s not a full-time thing by any means, we only meet around five or six times a year.”

The Kids Day Out is for youngsters aged three to 13 who can take part in poetry, music, storytelling, craft and dress ups.

Kids Day Out, Dapto Ribbonwood Centre, January 17 from 10am to 2pm. Cafe on side or BYO lunch. 

Workshops are free, though bookings are essential through www.eventbrite.com.au 

Read More: Kids’ summer book club at Kiama Library