Long-time Kiama local Brett Lemass has teamed up with his sister Juanita Harris to release “Palatable Paintings and Poems” - a heartfelt collection celebrating optimism, nature and community.

The title “Palatable” was chosen intentionally. 

“So much poetry today is sad and gloomy,” Lemass said. 

“I wanted something uplifting - something that feels good, like a poem that's good to the taste.”

The book blends his rhyming poems with his sister’s vivid artwork, reflecting their shared love for beauty, both in the natural world and in the people around them. 

“Her paintings bring my poems to life,” Lemass said.

Having lived in Kiama for over 60 years, Lemass draws deep inspiration from his surroundings.

A surfer and daily walker, he calls Kiama “the prettiest town in the world,” filled with natural wonders and “colourful characters” that give the town its flavour.

His poetry explores themes of friendship, family and gratitude. On the book’s opening page, he writes: “This poem reflects my appreciation of life, nature, family and great mates.” 

It’s a sentiment rooted in a life he calls fortune - free from war, full of health and blessed with loving parents.

Juanita, who still plays football and remains active in Jamberoo community organisations, has been a source of joy and pride in his life.

“She’s dearly loved,” he said.

He is already at work on two new poems, Gratefulness and Country Charms.

His reason for writing is simple: “If you can bring a bit of joy into other people’s lives, that’s a good reason for living in itself.”