With less than three months until entries close in this year's competition, Country Energy's regional general manager, Daryl Grant, reported that interest in the art prize was at an all time high.

"We expect in excess of 500 entries this year, well up from the 350 entries when the art prize was first launched in 2003," Daryl said.

Acclaimed as New South Wales' richest acquisitive landscape art prize, the competition is open to regional artists living and working in Country Energy's service area, which covers 95 per cent of New South Wales' land mass.

"Our company has a huge focus on regional communities, and we see the art prize as a unique way to raise the profile of regional artists and support opportunities that would otherwise only be available in the city.

"Talent is found in some surprising places, and whether you're in Burcher or Bathurst, Condobolin or Cowra, a recognised artist or just a 'dabbler', we would love to see your work," Daryl added.

Well known artist, Tim Storrier of Bathurst and overall judge for 2006 added, "The unique thing about this art prize is that it allows regional artists a rare opportunity to portray what is important to them and the environments in which they live and work".

"Our land provides such diversity and wealth of subjects and yet there is a defining aspect of our landscape that is inescapably Australian where ever you might be."

This year, judging for the art prize will be held at the Goulburn Regional Art Gallery.

Daryl said, "There is a wealth of artistic talent in our regional areas and the art prize is a wonderful showcase for that. I encourage anyone interested to start work on their entry soon and to mark the date on the calendar as entries close on 21 July 2006".

Entry forms are available at all Country Energy customer service centres and regional art galleries, by calling 13 23 56 or visiting http://www.countryenergy.com.au