Bush Poet • Writer • Storyteller
Some people find poetry in books.
David J Delaney found it on the road.
David J Delaney is an Australian bush poet and writer whose poems draw on a lifetime of work, travel, family, road memories, outback places and the people he has known along the way.
After numerous jobs in his youth, David worked in furniture removals for approximately 25 years. For 17 of those years, he and his wife Bev operated their own removal business, driving extensively throughout New South Wales and Queensland.
After retiring, David’s experiences continued to inspire his writing — memories of highways and tracks, the vast and beautiful outback, his wife, daughters, grandchildren and family, along with stories from mates, work colleagues and close war veterans.
Having left high school at 15, and without formal education in writing, David wanted to show that someone without higher schooling could still write, enjoy it, and share meaningful work.
Since then, David has published four of his own books, won many awards internationally, and had his writings published in newspapers, magazines, journals, eZines and blog interviews.
This page brings David’s poems, books, links and Country Campfire features together in one place, giving his work a permanent home outside the fast-moving social media feed.
Books And Links
David has published four books of his own writing.
David J Delaney on Country Campfire
The following poems by David J Delaney have been published or preserved on Country Campfire.
Creek Camp Memories
A peaceful bush escape where campfire light, native wildlife and a gently flowing creek replace the pressures of working life.
Male Dilemma
A simple request leaves one bloke trembling in this humorous poem, with the reason for his panic saved until the final line.
My Home Australia
A celebration of Australia’s diverse landscapes, wildlife and resilient country spirit, moving from drought and hardship to rain, renewal and colour.
Fifty Aborigines
A solemn historical poem about Aboriginal Australian trackers sent to the Boer War, the service they gave and the injustice of being denied a return home.
The Rum Barrel Club
A warm and mischievous true story about railway-yard larrikins, rum barrels and a secret drinking club that became a little too popular.
Why I Live where I Live (for Macca)
A joyful celebration of life around Cairns, where rainforest tracks, tropical wildlife, golden shores and reef waters make home feel like paradise.
Paradise
Reflects on the lasting impact of war on the families left behind, and the sacrifices that continue long after the soldiers return home.
The War at Home
Reflects on the lasting impact of war on the families left behind, and the sacrifices that continue long after the soldiers return home.
Snowy Mountain Blood
A powerful tribute to Australia’s mountain stockmen—their courage, heritage and the traditions handed down through generations.
The Cocky and Morrie
A classic country yarn about mateship, ingenuity and proving that appearances can be deceiving.
In the Shadow of Ghosts
A tribute to the Australian poets and writers whose work continues to inspire new generations.
Australia My Love
A heartfelt tribute to Australia’s landscapes, wildlife, campfires and the outback spirit that makes this country so special.
Old Life Dreams
A reflective bush poem about campfire memories, open country
and the longing to return to a freer life.
Night Mistress
A road-life bush poem about night driving, fatigue, family waiting at home and the lonely pull of the highway.
Part Of Keeping The Verse Alive
David J Delaney’s poems are shared on Country Campfire as part of Keeping The Verse Alive, a bush poetry preservation project created to help give written and recited Australian bush poetry a permanent home online.
Rights And Permission
Poems and contributions are shared by Country Campfire with permission.
Poems, recitals, photographs, stories and original works remain the property of their original creator and are shared by Country Campfire with permission.
Country Campfire Legend #7