Gulgong Prince of Wales Eisteddfod dance section concluded on Saturday after a successful week.
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“The standard of restricted dancers is very high,” said adjudicator, Rowena Sanderson. “These country dance teachers are doing a great job.”
A number of long-time regular faces danced their last Gulgong Eisteddfod this year.
Gulgong local Georgie Fabien returned for Group Day dancing with Step Up Dance Academy and was part of the troupe which won first place in the Open Entertainment/Musical Comedy/Song and Dance Group with Virgin America.
Georgie, who has won the Most Promising Dancer Award since she was six years old, is now studying dance full time with Brent Street in Sydney.
Oliver Sievers, of Dance Unlimited Mudgee, has been dancing at Gulgong Eisteddfod for over 10 years.
“We love coming to Gulgong – it’s our favourite Eisteddfod!” said Louisa, Oliver’s Mum.
Next year Oliver looks forward to pursuing a future in dance after completing his studies at St Matthews School Mudgee.
Kate Jeffery of Wellington is currently in Year 12 and is headed to university next year. Best remembered for her first solo at Gulgong Eisteddfod when she was seven years old, “Barbie Girl”, she is still referred to as Barbie Girl.
Kate had a successful week placing 17 times in the 18 classes in which she danced. She was awarded Most Promising 15 Years and Over Encouragement Award.
For a comprehensive list of Eisteddfod prize winners along with information on the Speech and Music sections visit the Eisteddfod website www.gulgongeisteddfod.com or the facebook page.
The Eisteddfod concludes with the Gala Concert held on Friday May 27, commencing at 7pm at the Prince of Wales Opera House.
Eisteddfod is a team effort
The dance week of the Prince of Wales Eisteddfod was supported by 42 volunteers covering 163 tasks throughout the week.
“We are blessed with a wonderful team of volunteers who do all kinds of things behind the scenes to ensure our Eisteddfod is a success,” said volunteer Louise Butlin.
“Preparation for the Eisteddfod is a year long process. As Eisteddfod month approaches it’s all hands on deck to get everything in order and to ensure things run smoothly during the event.
“The Committee would like to thank all our volunteers we truly value your support.”
Eisteddfod president Patricia Rowles thanked major sponsor Moolarben Coal for their ongoing support of our Eisteddfod, along with Aussie Country Catering, which donated materials to create three additional change rooms for the dancers.
A little friendly competition
Dubbed the “Friendly Eisteddfod” by regular visitors and dancers, the Prince of Wales Eisteddfod welcomed 1149 dancers onto the stage, and 740 tickets holders enjoyed the talent on display at the Gulgong Memorial Hall.
Junior dancer Jackson Hughes from Bathurst danced at the Gulgong Eisteddfod for the first time this year.
Jackson placed well in the classes he entered and went on to win the Kurtis Herd Male Dancer Encouragement Award.
“I’ve enjoyed coming along to Gulgong,” said Jackson. “This is my first time here and I have had a great time. I have found everyone so welcoming.”
Rhiannon Griffith of Dubbo was another junior dancer who enjoyed great success, being awarded the Most Promising 11 and 12 Years Encouragement Award.
“Gulgong Eisteddfod is by far one of the best Eisteddfods. I love it. I just love it!” said Rhiannon’s mother Johnine.
“Plus it also has one of the best canteens.”