Following its publication and exposure in The Bugle, demand has surged for copies of “Palatable Paintings and Poems”, a book released by locals Dr Brett Lemass and Juanita Harris.

Brett said the motive for writing the heartfelt collection was that each poem was to express a deep appreciation for experiencing the best in life - nature, family and great mates.

Juanita’s paintings vividly complement each poem with revered local characters, rural splendour, flora and fauna.

Poems are hand-written for authenticity and artistic effect.

Some poems (including ‘Great Mates’ ‘Essence’, ‘Gratefulness’, ‘Life Spice’, ‘Quiet Contentment’ and ‘Our Earthly Mark’) were intended to promote wellbeing, self-belief, life-purpose and optimism.

Refreshing and emphatic reader feedback has identified that these poems additionally provide therapeutic tonic for the ravages of bereavement, depression, loneliness and enduring grief.

‘Great Mates’ has found increasing use in funeral celebrations where relatives wish to convey how their beloved was so much more to them and their friends.

Readers have further aligned the poems with the positive outcomes sought by the Black Dog Institute and R U OK? Day.

Poems such as ‘Kiama Beckons’, ‘Frontier Living’, ‘The Condo BnS’, ‘Christmas in Kiama’ and ‘Reminiscing’ champion the thrill of lifelong adventure, while showcasing the perennial beauty of Kiama and paying tribute to the colourful characters of locally loved legends.

Great Mates

What Traits Characterise a Truly Great Mate?

Enduring Friendship... that is never Capricious

Magnanimous Actions... that are never Pernicious

A Great Mate is Supportive and will never Manipulate

Great Mates share Buoyant Adventures with You

They Materialise when Taxing Work must be Done

They want you, beside them during Furore and Fun

A Great Mate is Loyal and True-Blue

Great Mates Trust You with Secrets Heartfelt

During Adversity, they Advise and Motivate

Inspiring You to Recover, Prosper and Create

A Great Mate is a Perpetual Safety-Belt

Great Mates Celebrate Your Crowning Glories

Respecting You for being the Person You Are

Competing to Shout You at the Bar

A Great Mate Embellishes Your Big-Stories!

Great Mates Arrive with Tucker and Beer

Welcome Gifts in the Short and Long-Term

They help Family when You are Absent or Infirm

A Great Mate Fills Loving Hearts with Good Cheer

Do You Consider Yourself a Great Mate ?

Reflect on Who Trusts You through Thick and Thin

Choosing You to Stand by Them, and Hold Them Within

Be that Great Mate who Steps Up to the Plate !