‘Spirit of the Bush’ competition returns to celebrate life on the land

Running from 14 July to 31 August 2025, the much-loved competition provides a powerful platform for rural and regional Australians to tell their stories through the lens, stories of rugged beauty, resilience and community spirit in the face of hardship.

This year’s competition comes after another challenging season of natural disasters, with floods, fires, and droughts once again testing the resolve of the nation’s rural heartland.

“Every year, we are humbled by the entries we receive, each photo is a tribute to the unwavering spirit of our farming families and communities,” said Rural Aid CEO John Warlters.

“The Spirit of the Bush competition is more than a showcase of talent. It’s a reminder of the grit and determination that keeps rural Australia going, even through the toughest of times.”

Entrants are invited to submit a high-resolution, landscape photograph that represents the true “Spirit of the Bush”.

Photos can be submitted via Instagram or Facebook by tagging @ruralaid in the image and using the hashtag #SOTB2025. Entries can also be submitted, and the competition terms and conditions can be reviewed, via www.ruralaid.org.au/spirit-of-the-bush/.

A panel of judges will select ten winning images, each of which will receive a $250 prepaid Visa card.

Winners will be announced on 15 September 2025.

“This is a celebration of the people and places that make our regions special,” Mr Warlters said.

“Whether it’s a hardworking farmer, a storm rolling across a paddock, or a quiet moment at sunset, every image has the power to connect Australians with the bush.”

Rural Aid encourages everyone with a passion for photography and the country to pick up their camera and show the world what the Spirit of the Bush means to them.