The result was not one, but two, published works which were launched in front of a COVID-safe crowd at Soldiers Point Bowling Club on Monday. A second book launch was held at Fingal Bay on Wednesday.

The books - titled Just Dreaming and Stinkpot's 50 Fishing Secrets - add to his extensive Port Stephens collection relating to fishing, local history and children's entertainment.

While there was a smaller than expected number of people who attended the launch due to a new outbreak of COVID in the Hunter, there was a sweet smell of success across the auditorium, starting with the welcome to country which was performed by a young Aboriginal boy, Archie, who was warmly received.

"Unfortunately, we have had a few of people including dignitaries pull out at the last minute, but that cannot be helped. I am grateful to all those who could attend," Clarke said.

The prolonged period of lockdown, added the author and fishing guru, had a positive impact "by giving me the opportunity to complete books 10 and 11".

Just Dreaming was launched by Jamie Tarrant, a proud Worimi man and a former student of Mr Clarke when he was a teacher at Nelson Bay High School.

It is a children's book telling the story of a vision of Port Stephens thousands of years ago, when the only footprints in the sand were those of the first people.

"The only characters in the book are a young boy Gaparr and his sister Mitjigan and their wanderings from Stockton Beach to Broughton Island and throughout the port into the Myall Lakes," Clarke said. "It is illustrated by Worimi man Regan Lilley and features an abundance of animals, birds, fish and the denseness and beauty of the bushland."

Stinkpot's 50 Fishing Secrets is a sequel to Stinker's very popular book Fish - Port Stephens, which has sold out. It was launched by George Trinkler, from Karuah, who is one of six popular Port fishermen featured in it.

"With the input of six of the best recreational fishers in the Port, I have listed the hottest fishing spots with accompanying maps between Stockton Beach and Seal Rocks and right throughout the port, and it features the outstanding photography of Stephen Keating and Bonita Holmes-Nu'u."

Clarke will be conducting book signings at the Fingal Bay Cellars cafe 5pm-7pm every Thursday and Sunday until Christmas.

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