Celebrations are afoot at Australian Country, with news that the glossy lifestyle magazine is defying publishing trends with a dramatic increase in readership in recent months.

Just-released emma (Enhanced Media Metrics Australia) data shows that in the quarter from April to June 2015, Australian Country’s readership increased by 18 per cent (20,000 readers) from 111,000 to 131,000.

By comparison, during the same period, Inside Out experienced a 10 per cent decline, RM Williams OUTback dropped seven per cent and Australian Country Style lost two per cent.

Australian Country’s editor, Kirsty McKenzie, said the results are particularly important at a time when much of bush Australia is suffering from prolonged drought. “The emma data is gratifying as it shows we are catering for a broad range of people with an interest in country life,” she said. “It’s great to see that our commitment to presenting real stories about real people is resonating with our audience and hopefully building a bridge between the city and the bush.”