Ballarat Grammar student Joné Greef has taken out top prize in the Bulldogs Read program for 2020. 

The primary school pupil completed an incredible 34 book reviews this year, as part of the program jointly run by the Western Bulldogs and City of Ballarat.

Making Joné’s efforts more remarkable are the fact her first language is Afrikaans, having moved to Australia with her family only 18 months ago from South Africa. 

The program has helped her to improve her English reading and writing skills, while uncovering some good stories.

"There were a few books in the junior school library that looked easy to start," Joné told the Ballarat Courier.

"I read a few Ella Diaries and Billie B Brown - some of these are short if you don't want long, massive books - 10 minutes and you're done and you don't have to worry about bookmarks or where you were up to.”

For her efforts, Joné received a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, 2020 signed AFL and AFLW jumpers, Ballarat Bulldogs merchandise, and of course – some new books.

Ballarat Engagement Manager Campbell Waring said this year’s program – despite some challenged due to COVID-19 – had seen a record level of involvement.

“We had six schools and 100 students take part in the Bulldogs Read program in 2020, which is more than we’ve ever had before,” Mr Waring said.

“Remote learning provided challenges for students and schools this year but it was great to see so many students continue to read and post their book reviews.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing work of City of Ballarat librarian Julie Bull, who continued to drive the program through the lockdown period.”

The Bulldogs Read program has been running since 2016.

It is a literacy program aimed at giving primary school pupils from grade three to six an opportunity to participate in reading and writing workshops, connecting the Western Bulldogs to the City of Ballarat and the community.