The event celebrates Australian bush poetry and storytelling and is open to everyone.
Kyabram and District Bush Verse Group president Greg McKenzie said the event had been running for several years.
“We get a number of poets that come in and either tell a yarn or a poem and we have the Johnny Johanson award for the best storyteller,” he said.
“Generally, the yarns are about Australian life, but they don't have to be.
“It is open to anyone, and anyone can get up from the floor and recite a poem or tell a yarn.”
A panel organised by the Kyabram Lions Club judges the Johnny Johanson Award.
A highlight of the afternoon is the announcement of winners of the Betty Ollie Poetry Award, in both junior and senior categories.
“The Betty Ollie Poetry Award is in its 13th or 14th year, and we get entries from all around Australia, from most states around Australia,” Mr McKenzie said.
“In 2025 we had around 40-odd junior entries, and I think we had a similar number of senior entries, so around 40 to 50.”
Winning entrants may also be present to recite their poem.
“Generally, only the winners' poems get performed, but sometimes club members may recite some of the other poems,” Mr McKenzie said.
The award recognises poetry about Australian life and culture.
“That can include Indigenous culture, but some of the stories or poems talk about things that are important in Australia's history, like Gallipoli and the European era during the First World War,” Mr McKenzie said.
“Betty Ollie was a founding member of the Kyabram and District Bush Verse Group and when she passed away, her family donated some money to the club to set up the award.”
Afternoon tea is included and entry costs $15.
Those wishing to have lunch beforehand should book directly with the Kyabram Club.
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