Kyabram and District Bush Verse Group president Greg McKenzie highlighted the significance of the members’ mission.
“The group strives to ensure that Australian bush verse remains a vibrant part of our cultural fabric,” Mr McKenzie said.
“We’re deeply committed to promoting bush verse within our local community.”
Despite its modest membership of about 15, the group organises a nationally recognised competition known as the Betty Olle Award.
“We run both senior and junior sections, and the award is now in its 10th year,” Mr McKenzie said.
“It’s highly respected and eagerly contested by renowned Australian bush poets.”
The competition draws entries from across the nation, including schools.
“We receive submissions from every state in Australia,” Mr McKenzie said.
“We particularly encourage schools to participate in our junior section.”
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Betty Olle Award, named after a founding member of the group.
The competition attracted 50 senior entries and about 30 junior entries from around the country.
Irene Dalgety Timpone from Atherton, Queensland, clinched the senior award for the third time with her verse Remembering Blue.
In the junior category, Kyabram’s own Kaleb Archard took top honours with Australia’s Wonders.
The group’s annual Christmas celebration is set for Sunday, December 8 at the Kyvalley Hall.
Bush verse holds a special place in Australia’s cultural heritage, serving as a unique form of storytelling that captures the essence of rural life and the Australian spirit.
It has played a significant role in preserving the nation’s history and values through rhythmic, often humorous narratives.
Betty Olle was a passionate advocate for bush poetry and a driving force behind the group's formation.
Her dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting the art form laid the foundation for the competition’s success.
Past winners have often spoken of the competition’s impact on their craft.
“The Betty Olle Award gave me the confidence to continue writing and sharing my verses,” one previous recipient said.
“It’s more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of our shared cultural heritage.”
