Continuing a long tradition, the RTBU Award for Poets and Songwriters is running again in 2009.
From convict days when human power was used to propel railway carriages at Port Arthur, to early steam rail openings, through two depressions, a general strike, two world wars and changing technologies, Australian railway workers and passengers have endured the good and the bad.
While doing so, they have often reflected upon the times with music, songs, poems, tall stories and other art forms.
The Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) is looking for original music, songs, poems and other art forms to help portray life on Australian railways today.
Topics could range from working conditions to emissions reduction, infrastructure, fast trains and the advantage of general public railway services over the car.
Looking for some inspiration? Visit www.railwaysongs.blogspot.com.
The winning entrant stands to win $1000 and the opportunity for their work to be publicised through the RTBU and associated organisations. Closing date for entries is September 4.\
To download an entry form and competition rules, visit www.rtbu-nat.asn.au, call (02) 9310 3966 or email