Judges of the 2008 Banjo Paterson Writing Awards have reported strong rural themes in many of the entries received in this year’s competition.

Perhaps this is an indication of the state of rural Australia is playing heavily on many minds.

In the past major news stories have inspired writers with events such as Tony Bullimore’s much publicised Southern Ocean flounder in 2005 causing a lone sailor theme to emerge in the 2005 competition

A theme rich in popular culture is not what the judges seek, though.

Central West Writers’ Centre reading and writing coordinator Jasmine Vidler said: “We’re just looking for a story that evokes a feeling or emotion or a really good story that keeps you reading and engages you.”

The competition has moved into the judging stage.

Most award entries come from the Central West but a strong supply from around the country has also been received.

Entries have been received across four categories: prose, open poetry, bush poetry and children’s writing.

The winner will receive a $1000 first prize and will have their piece published in the Central Western Daily.