Dr Drane launched the book, The First Pilot, in front of a crowd at Camden Head on April 14, coinciding with this years bicentenary marking the region's 200th year since European settlement.

The new novel depicts the history of a pilot station and its first inhabitants. The story was researched around and closely follows Isaac Williams (formerly Buttress) who travelled to Australia from England in 1840.

Isaac was known as a sailor and fisherman, but did not appear on any records such as immigrant, bounty or convict ship lists. He became the first boatman (pilot) at the station.

"It's a historical novel and is tied down to people in the past. The book is a history and record to understand what happened in the past," Dr Drane said.

"I was inspired to write the book from a poem, a map and a dream. There is incredible power about the station.

"I've returned for holidays to Dunbogan each year for 15 years with my wife and three children. We holidayed on the inlet under the shade of the brother.

"Endless summer days at pilots beach, dolphins and boating on the river.

"The children tend their (fishing) lines, their fingers cut by hooks and prawn spikes. Not catching a thing, but not caring."

The novel was researched with the help of Camden Haven Historical Society, Camden Haven Community College, Port Macquarie Historical Society, Port Macquarie Coroner's Office, State Library of NSW, The State Archives, Birpai Aboriginal Land Council and family of Isaac Williams.