In recognition of those writers who have made a significant input into the reporting on the Australian country music scene an award has instigated to recognise their contribution.

It was also announced that the honour would henceforth be known as the Eric Watson Award in recognition of the first winner of the title who is renowned as Australia's first Australian country music historian through the publication of his definitive books "Country Music in Australia" Volume 1 published by Cornstalk Publishing in 1975 and "Country Music in Australia" Volume 2 published by Cornstalk Publishing in 1983.

James "Jazzer" Smith was the second recipient for his work as a journalist with the Capital News magazine and his book "The Book of Australian Country Music" published by The Berghouse Floyd Tuckey Publishing Group in 1984..

In 2011 Max Thorburn won the award.

In 2013 Max Ellis became the 4th winner. Max has an extensive history at http://www.historyofcountrymusic.com.au/intro.html as well as his book "Stars, Hurrahs and Golden Guitars" published by Agricultural Publishers Pty Ltd in 2012.

To nominate for the award click here to get a nomination form and to see the eligibility rules.