The book was launched at Inverell Library with hundreds of people to witness the historic event on Thursday.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said it was a large and diverse crowd for Esther, a treasured member of the community.

He said he first saw her poetry a long time ago on the walls of the hospital and it was now in his office but the book meant “we can now take Esther with us where ever we go”.

Cr Paul King said the key to Esther’s growth from a shy person to a performer was the Sapphire City Poets Breakfast many years ago where she brought down the house.

He said he was very proud of her.

Esther recited one of her poems and thanked everyone for attending before she cut an official ribbon off her book and posed with guests as they cut the cake for the cameras.

Kimarani Livermore performed welcome to country before Alex Munro on didgeridoo accompanied Josh Williams who sang, danced and played the tapping sticks.

The book will be available from Inverell Tourist Information Centre for $20.