Kerri Renton, known to her friends as Cooee Kerri, is a creative powerhouse whose imagination was shaped by her childhood spent exploring the Australian outback and adult years living and working across WA’s Pilbara and Goldfields regions.
Six years ago, inspired by these experiences, Kerri began writing what would become the first of many stories set in her vibrant world of Bootscoot’n’Betty and Friends of the Australian Outback.
“I started with one character, Bootscoot’n Betty, and then from there I decided she wanted to introduce her many friends and lots of animal friends as well,” says Kerri from her Karratha home. Before long each of them had their own backstory. The ideas just kept pouring out.”
Fans now know Kerri as Cooee Kerri, the creator, writer and producer behind Bootscoot’n Betty and Friends series, a growing children’s entertainment brand that blends books, music, live theatre and learning programs to help children and families connect with the wonders of the Australian outback
“What started as a scribble in my notebook has grown into a full-scale production,” says Kerri. “I’ve written storybooks, produced original songs, created stage shows and toured productions featuring characters like Ranger Robert, Live Green Lexi, Waste-Less Wade, Lasso’n Leroy, Jillaroo Jayne and, of course, Bootscoot’n Betty herself.
“Each character brings their own super hero lesson to life encompassing kindness, teamwork and caring for the environment, fully guided by Kerri’s Mind Your B’s framework: Be Kind, Be Adventurous, Be Resourceful, Be Thoughtful, Be Curious and Be Your Best Self. It’s about helping kids learn important life lessons through play, friendship together and song,” Kerri explains.
“We’ve performed everywhere from Robe River rodeo to WA Day and the Perth Royal Show to community events throughout several regional WA towns. I’ve even created an online Rookie Rangers Club to help kids join the adventure from anywhere.”
At the heart of Kerri’s stories lies The Secret Homestead, a magical place where imagination comes alive.
“It’s a place that encourages families to dream, imagine and reconnect with nature and each other,” she says “Even if we’re stuck in our own backyard, imagination can take us there.”
Her character Live Green Lexi inspires children to plant seeds and take care of the earth, while Ranger Robert sparks adventure while learning about wildlife and the outback.
In 2021, Kerri brought her characters to life on the stage in the Pilbara and has provided more than 40 youth and budding performers of all ages the chance to perform as costumed characters.
“Each costumed character has to act using their entire body, not just their face,” she says. “It’s amazing watching talented people grow in confidence as they bring my beloved characters to life.”
Her first live show, Meet My Friends, debuted at the Karratha FeNaCING Festival and the Perth Royal Show, followed by performances at Telethon and major community events. Bootscoot’n Betty and Friends performed recently at Grandies Big Day Out at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour.
Despite her success, Kerry continues to self-fund her productions while working full-time.
“I do it because I believe in it,” she says. “Every show, every song, is all made so families can experience joy, imagination and connection.
“I pay my performers where possible and give them real industry experience.”
Kerri’s music can be heard on Spotify and other streaming platforms, featuring more than 10 original songs written and produced under her Bootscoot’n Betty and Friends banner.
“When I see the kids singing along, dancing and smiling, that’s the real reward,” she says. “I just want to give back to the performing arts and create opportunities for others to shine.”
Next big show: Hoedown at Harmony 2026 at Harmony Fields in Maddington, Bootscoot’n Betty and Friends of the Australian Outback from 5.30pm-6.30pm, Saturday, March 7.
Visit bettyandfriends.com.au for more information, music and upcoming events.
