Lismore News
Creative competitors have their chance to shine
Creative competitors have their chance to shine
By Samantha Elley
Despite an absence of three years, the Eisteddfod has returned.
“We lost everything in the Lismore flood – 114 years of written history and irreplaceable memorabilia,” said organiser Yvonne Stevenson.
“Fortunately, through a flood relief grant, we were reimbursed for equipment which had to be repaired or replaced.
“This included the restoration of our perpetual trophies and the replacement of our display cabinets.
“These had been on display in the Lismore Library, which suffered severe flood damage.
“We have also purchased new choir rises which were previously stored in the Lismore City Hall along with computer and speakers.”
While the regular competition venues were severely damaged due to the flood, the organisation has had to look further afield, even outside Lismore in the case of the Schools Competition.
The Eisteddfod is now putting out a call for all competitors.
“Is your talent in song or dramatic performances? Perhaps you play the piano, or one of the string, woodwind or brass instruments,” said Ms Stevenon.
“Does your performance joy come through dance – ballet, song and dance, hip-hop, tap, jazz or troupe? Or the fun and excitement of Primary and Secondary School performances?
“The Lismore Eisteddfod is your opportunity to step out onto a stage and showcase your talent.”
Ms Stevenson said the fact the 2023 Eisteddfod was going ahead was in no small part to their patron, Margot Davies.
“Margot approached us last year, offering her assistance to get the Lismore Eisteddfod up and running,” she said.
Ms Davies connection to the Lismore Eisteddfod is through her mother, Thelma Turner, who competed in the Lismore Musical Festival in 1925 and was subsequently offered a scholarship to study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Marriage to Harry Graeme and the birth of two daughters followed. Thelma Graeme – now her professional name – continued with her musical career and remained in the music world for the rest of her life.
To honour her mother’s musical career beginning in Lismore, Margot Davies has established the Thelma Graeme Perpetual Award for a female singer 16 years and over.
“The winner will receive a perpetual Trophy and $500 to be used for voice advancement and/or tuition.”
Local sponsors Sackett and Weir and Murray Howlett have stepped forward to support the Lismore Eisteddfod.
Resonator Music in Ballina and Planet Music in Lismore are providing the awards and Lismore High School, The Northern Rivers Conservatorium and the Richmond Valley Council have assisted with venues.
“We would love to hear from any potential sponsors – be it monetary, offering awards, or assisting at competition venues,” said Ms Stevenson.
Schools Competitions will be held from 28 August until 1 September in the Civic Hall in Casino.
The Northern Rivers Conservatorium in Lismore will host the Speech and Drama, and Vocal and Instrumental Competitions from 2 – 8 September.
The Dance Competitions will commence on 23 September and continue until 6 October at the Lismore High School Campus auditorium.
Competition schedules are available on their website: lismoreeisteddfod.com.au or call the secretary for further information on 0427 404383.
