THE gift of organ donation was celebrated in Tweed Heads yesterday with the launch of The DonateLife Book of Life.

The book will collect contributions like stories, poems, pictures and experiences about organ and tissue donation, transplantation and waiting for a transplant and hope.

The Book of Life will then travel around NSW this year before becoming part of a national collection and donated to the State Library of NSW and National Library in DonateLife Week 2012.

Tweed Shire Council mayor Barry Longland said he encouraged people to contribute their stories to the special book.

"The contributions that this book will collect over the coming year will showcase the best of the human spirit and how that spirit of generosity saves lives," he said.

"Most importantly, the DonateLife Book of Life will encourage people to discuss organ and tissue donation."

Northern NSW Local Health spokeswoman Mary Campbell, a district Organ and Tissue Clinical Nurse Specialist said her service would help to facilitate organ donation for anyone from any culture who wants to donate.

"We provide support for families before, during and long after donation occurs," Ms Campbell said.

"Families tell us that donation is a very positive outcome for them at this time of their great personal loss."

State Medical Director for DonateLife NSW Dr Robert Herkes thanked people for attending yesterday's launch.

"I want to thank the people of NSW for their generosity in donation as I know that organ and tissue donation occurs at a very difficult time for families," Dr Herks said.

This year to date, NSW is tracking well to meet its record 2010 increase in organ donations and organ transplant surgery.