At the age of 91, he can now add published author to the long list of achievements.

The first-time author recently celebrated the launch of Still Air At Dawn, which draws on his experience training with the RAAF and flying Lancaster bombers in England during WWII.

More than 70 years ago, while hoping to marry his English sweetheart Bo, Tom wasn't sure he would survive let alone weave his experiences into a rich novel that would be written and published seven decades later.

Well-known Port Macquarie journalist and author Laurie Barber described the book as a good story from a very capable author, whose words flow naturally.

"Many other books have been written about wartime flying, but Tom felt he could make a fictional story more interesting and dramatic," Mr Barber said.

"Having read the story, I'm convinced that he has achieved what he set out to do.

"I know it will be read with interest by all those who enjoy a good read."

Still Air At Dawn will appeal to people in dramatic tales of flying in the war years and also by book lovers who enjoy human interest and love stories.

Mr Hearle's book captures life in Australia before and during the war, bringing to life the camaraderie and larrikinism of the young Australian men, some only boys, who travelled in perilous convoys to face combat.

Still Air at Dawn gives readers an insight into the world of the servicemen and women and the ordinary English folk who faced bombs, privations, trauma and loss during the war years.

Amongst the crowd of 80, four generations of Mr Hearle's family were present at the launch of his book, as well as representatives from the Rotary, The Australian Fellowship of Writers, Port Macquarie Library, book groups and friends.

The book can be purchased at Hearle's Pharmacy in Clifton Drive or by writing to Mr Hearle at PO Box 9034, Port Macquarie and enclosing a cheque or money order for $25 (which includes $5 for postage).

nicole.langdon@fairfaxmedia.com.au