Nifty Ness Designs
Freelance Illustrator and graphic designer Hi, I'm Vanessa Fernandes, children's book illustrator and graphic designer based in Perth, Australia.
27/04/2026
I’m honoured to be a part of this amazing project 🌟
Teamwork and community is what it is all about.
I want to acknowledge the following people. Nifty Ness Designs for bringing our characters to life. Vanessa took our actual vehicles and gave them a life, capturing the personalities of their name sakes. As each adventure develops in different corners of our world she’s also managed to capture the wildlife found in those areas making our books extra special.
Sarah Van Heerden for her editing, late night calls, guidance and educating us on dyslexic style fonts which Vanessa then designed one specifically for off road kidz.
But storytelling is not just about the story and the pictures.
Ricardo with his marketing team The Revenue Crew have managed to come up with great innovative ideas to post on our socials.
This is not an easy task as we are all on different time zones.
The off road community for all your encouragement and interactions and ideas.
My amazing friends far and wide for your support and encouragement.
Last but by no means least my incredible family for always believing in me and guiding me. You’re the reason I do this and I am blessed everyday by your love and support.
So thank you 🙏 to an incredible bunch of amazing souls who make this all possible.
It’s not just about books, it’s about lessons, learning, teaching and a way of life.
24/04/2026
Another great story illustrated by ‘moi’ - I’m very lucky to work with such wonderful authors. Congratulations to Off-Road Kidz for another great story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book Review: Off-Road Kidz – Fuelled by Friendship
Fuelled by Friendship is a powerful and heartwarming addition to the Off-Road Kidz series—blending high-energy adventure with a deeply meaningful message that every child needs to hear.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the African desert, the story immediately pulls readers into a fast-paced world of roaring engines and thrilling terrain. But what truly sets this book apart is its emotional depth. Beneath the action lies an important narrative about bullying, self-belief, and the strength found in friendship.
One of the most impactful elements is how the story transforms something often seen as a weakness—wearing glasses—into a powerful metaphor for perspective. Through this lens, young readers are taught to see beyond fear and doubt, recognising their own strengths and the value of kindness and courage.
The storytelling is simple enough for younger readers to follow, yet layered with lessons that resonate with parents and educators alike. It doesn’t feel preachy—instead, it naturally shows children how to stand up for themselves, support others, and embrace what makes them different.
What makes this book especially valuable is its real-world relevance. In a time where many children face challenges with confidence and peer pressure, Fuelled by Friendship delivers a message that is both empowering and practical:
👉 Believe in who you are
👉 Surround yourself with the right people
👉 Stand together, no matter what
The Off-Road Kidz crew once again proves that adventure isn’t just about the journey—it’s about the people beside you.
21/03/2026
Cheeky adventures in the lily pond 🐾🐸
16/12/2025
Such a fun little story - fun, friendship and adventure galore 🏁❤️
🎄✨ A Christmas Adventure with the Off-Road Kidz! ✨🎄
The holidays are here — and our little adventurers are ready to ride into the festive season with their favorite book, Team Work Makes The Dream Work! 🚙💨❤️
From sunny Aussie mornings to cozy storytime under the tree, it’s the perfect gift to spark imagination, laughter, and teamwork this Christmas. 🌈🎁
📚 Available now on offroadkidzclub.com
and at partnering retailers.
16/12/2025
Beehealthystories was one of my very first illustration clients, and I’ve been very lucky to have worked on some amazing projects with them. Go check out https://beehealthystories.com.au/stories/ to see their amazing work 💛
16/12/2025
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… 🎄✨
And word has it that Santa’s elves have been busy on our Join Jackson’s Journey website! They’ve placed their orders, and we’ve happily packaged up sets ready to make their way to families right around the country.
Join Jackson’s Journey helps children build empathy, inclusion and leadership skills from a young age — qualities our future leaders will need now more than ever.
16/12/2025
27/10/2025
❤️ Beehealthystories ❤️
27/09/2025
That's a wrap on another final. had an incredible pregame show. Well done to
23/09/2025
📚 It's been an amazing week! 📚
Book Week has exceeded all expectations, bringing laughter, captivating stories, and memories that will last. I've had the pleasure of visiting several schools to read the book, and the reception was fantastic. The kids were radiant, asked so many questions and picked up on all the subliminal messages the book offers!!! The teachers were equally thrilled and especially excited about the dyslexic font used and the powerful messages the book delivers.
A big thank you to all those that joined the adventure and sharing the joy.
And happy birthday 🎊 to our very own Smiley Riley! 🎉📚
13/05/2025
Happy belated Mother’s Day to all the beautiful moms out there and especially to mine. I’m blessed to have both a wonderful mother and mother-in-law (not everyone gets to say that!). Although there’s a huge ocean between us, I cherish the phone calls and holidays we share together. If you’re lucky enough to have your mom near, make the most it!! You are never too old to enjoy the warmth of your mothers hugs!! (Illustration from I Wish I was a Fish)
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