Manning in Rhyme was conceived by Lucy Bokulic of the Manning Valley Senior Citizens Association, to honour her late friend and published Manning Valley poet, Hans Ruiner.

This year more than 120 entries were received across the three competition categories of under 12, youth and open age.

Competition organisers from Manning Valley Senior Citizens Association and Greater Taree City Council are pleased to have Neville Briggs, president of the Singleton Bush Poets group, as judge for the competition.

Mr Briggs has been impressed with the quality of work received which has made it a difficult task to single out the winners.

Overall there are eight prizes on offer. The winners of each category will receive a $100 cash prize and trophy, and there are also five encouragement awards.

The presentation begins at 4pm, with winners being invited to read their poems as part of celebrations. Entrants will then have an opportunity to discuss their poems with Mr Briggs and enjoy some afternoon tea.

Event organiser from Manning Valley Libraries, Danielle Old, is delighted with the community response. "With such interest in poetry-writing from our community I am sure the competition will continue to grow."