'This Homeland of Mine is a collection of poems about Australia, Australians and Australiana. "Australian Icons" tells stories in rhyme about all things Australian. There is a swaggie, the Zig Zag Railway, the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme and many more to tweak the memories of readers of all ages. "Nostalgia" reflects on the early days from the middle of the 20th century. In this bygone era, Bonfire Night was much anticipated, a day at the beach was a wonderful family experience, and children were much more adventurous and energetic than they are today. "Australian at Heart" leaves no doubt about the poet's pride in his nationality and his great love for his homeland, as shown in his travels throughout this wonderful country and in his poems close to the heart. "Australian Soldiers" draws on the poet's history as a soldier, with poems about service in wars from World War II up until Viet Nam. Poems that have a modern focus provide encouragement to younger soldiers returning from Afghanistan, Iraq and East Timor. Noel Humphreys' poems are meaningful, emotional, historical and comical. Australians of all ages will enjoy them, allowing readers to reminisce about their own lives, or to appreciate the poems from the perspective of younger generations.' (Publication summary)
