The koalas in care at Port Macquarie Koala Hospital have inspired an illustrated children's storybook.
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The book, titled Up in the Trees Under the Stars, was written and illustrated by Jacqueline Salisbury.
It tells a fictional story of the antics of koalas under the stars with Myrtle as the main character.
"Myrtle is one of the koalas that shows a big personality so I thought she would be a good starting point," Jacqueline said.
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital shop coordinator Lynne Booth had a long-held vision for a fun children's book inspired by the koalas in care at the koala hospital.
That vision, combined with Jacqueline's creativity, provided the impetus for the book.
Jacqueline, a koala hospital volunteer, has a degree in English literature, a love of books and 12 years' experience as a teaching assistant.
It took about a month for the fictional story and watercolours to come together.
She provided the watercolours and text to graphic designer Ben Creighton from AreCreative who brought the book to life.
Up in the Trees Under the Stars is available for $15 at the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital with the money raised going back into the koala hospital.
Jacqueline said she was over the moon with the book.
She thanked Lynne for her encouragement and the koala hospital for allowing her to be a volunteer.
Lynne described the book as fantastic.
A sequel is in the very early stages.
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