He is determined to unearth the history of the township and its residents, and compile a book which will be launched at the festival.

Mr Hyland has already gathered many interesting tales on the diverse, beautiful region.

A couple who settled at Gunns PLains in the 1940s just before the end of World War II came forward to tell Mr Hyland about a time where Italian prisoners of war were on their property.

Mr Hyland, who is semi-retired, wrote a book on the history of the Johns family, which led him to Gunns Plains and instigated his interest in the area. 

My Hyland said there were seven or eight Italians POWs in the area during that era, so a section of the book would hopefully be devoted to their stories. 

Given the amount of feedback Mr Hyland has already received, he thinks he'll be constantly at work completing the book by November. 

Gunns Plains has a population of about 300 and is ensconced a valley 20 kilometres south of Ulverstone. 

"It's just a fascinating place, I just think it's the most beautiful spot from any angle, where ever you are," Mr Hyland said. 

"The way it's landlocked like a little village, it's always been a really good community."

Mr Hyland said communal compassion was prominent in times of disaster.

"I think from the very early days just pulling together to get things done and helping one another as they suffered through the depression years, terrible bushfires in 1926," Mr Hyland said. 

 "Floods many times when the Leven River flooded its banks … as recently as last week, where they were the worst floods on record."

My Hyland asks family members associated with the area with photographs or information to get in touch with him.

Mr Hyland would appreciate contact from anyone with knowledge of the early families who settled the area.

For those with information, Mr Hyland can be reached via phone on 6431 7404 or via email at raymarg7@gmail.com