Thanks to support of former volunteer weather recorder Jim Mathieson, we have started up the contest to guess when the first rains will arrive after October 1.

Mr Mathieson said the preoccupation with the buildup and arrival of the first rains is always a popular topic of public debate.

So, starting today, make your prediction.

When will the first rain after (and including) October 1 arrive, and for added fun, how much and it has to be 10mm or more?

First prize is a brand, spanking new rain gauge.

Last prize, the person missing by the most, wins the Editor’s old, much loved, but much yellowed, gauge.

To help you, Mr Mathieson has provided the last 16 years of the first rain after October 1, recorded at the Katherine Country Club’s weather station.

So have a go, first rain above 10mm after October 1, the date and how much?

Send your entries to gemma.obrien@fairfaxmedia.com.au

Snail mail to Katherine Times, PO Box 42, Katherine 0850

Facebook message us at Katherine Times,

Or just drop it in to our Katherine Terrace office, opposite the post office.

Best of luck.