Capturing the spirit of the bush

AUSTRALIANS are invited to share striking images capturing the strength, resilience and beauty of life on the land for the sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photo Competition.

The competition, run by Rural Aid, provides a platform for rural and regional Australians to tell their stories of rugged beauty, resilience and community spirit in the face of hardship.

Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, providing critical support to farmers and regional communities since 2015.

It provides mental health services, hay, water, and community resilience programs.

“Every year, we are humbled by the entries we receive,” said Rural Aid CEO John Warlters.

“Each photo is a tribute to the unwavering spirit of our farming families and communities.

“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 representing 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 the Rural Aid website at ruralaid.org.au/spirit-of-the-bush.

From the entries, 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.”

Everyone with an interest in photography and the country is encouraged to pick up their cameras and show what the Spirit of the Bush means to them.

The competition is open now and closes on 31 August.