The present committee would like to thank and congratulate all previous committees, teachers, volunteers and performers. Many performers have gone on to pursue their career in their chosen art which all began at the Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod.
The Coffs Harbour and District Eisteddfod Society has been encouraging and nurturing young performers across various genres for 50 years. The society was formed in 1972 driven by former shire president Shirley McHugh and the late Mrs Sheila Russell. With the first Eisteddfod in 1973, it has grown now to over 3000 entrants annually, offering our local youth the rare opportunity to perform on stage.
Many performers who have competed at the Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod have gone on to successful careers in the Performing Arts.
Previous Patrons of Coffs Harbour & District Eisteddfod Society ( 1989)
Mr Mat Singleton
Ms Val Ingram
Life Members ( 1989)
Val Ingram
George Arnett
N Standing
D Vercoe
S Russell
Leanne Grey ( 2018)
Currently we have six sections of the Eisteddfod, namely Piano, Vocal, Choirs, Dance, Instrumental, and Speech and Drama, with specific Schools Group sections within these genres.
As well as our annual Eisteddfod, Gala & Excellence Concerts and workshops where students can showcase their talents, the Society also provides opportunities for talented performers to further their training and experience via scholarships to summer schools, workshops and lessons with world renowned teachers.
The Eisteddfod is an essential mechanism for local Schools, Dance Studios and Companies and music teachers to present their students and enable them to have valuable experience in public performance. Entrants regularly come a far afield as Sydney and the Gold Coast.
As a non for profit organisation we rely on the generosity of local Coffs Harbour business for financial sponsorship for which we are always grateful, without their support we would not be able to continue and support our local students in the Performing Arts.
Our volunteers are an essential resource to our association. There input with time, organisation skills and support ensure that we can provide the best possible opportunities to our regional students.