During his grand concert speech, president of 36 years Tim Stack gave some insight into why he loves the event so much – and why he has been involved for so long.

One example he gave, from this year, was of a conversation he overheard between a young boy and his mother one evening following the boy’s performance.

“I don’t know whether he was placed first or last – that’s not important.

“What is important is what he said.

“He said, ‘Thanks for believing in me mum’.

“Of course, underpinning this performer’s comment was belief in himself. So for anyone out there who is showing belief in themselves and others ... keep it up!

“Just being on the stage is a show of talent. A talent for courage and commitment – all good armoury for your future lives.”

Mr Stack also told of another competitor who had won a significant award last year who had apologised to him for not writing a thank you letter but explained she had been quite sick for a long time.

Within a day or two he saw the same young lady playing the saxophone on stage yet her continuing illness included shortness of breath.

“What a great example of an amazing young person.

“Her mum was in tears seeing her get through it and although we have judges to assess performances on stage, in this case no rating was needed.

“There are just some steps in life when you are left simply awestruck with an example of courage.

“This is true testament to our words: The important thing is not to win a prize or beat a rival, but to pace one another on the road to excellence.

“It’s a great privilege to be involved in the eisteddfod and I thank my committee and everyone present for your belief in, and support, of these eisteddfod ideals.”

Competitors in this year’s eisteddfod ranged from three years of age to 88 and between 150 and 200 volunteers freely gave of their time to assist and make the eisteddfod a reality.

Mr Stack thanked his eisteddfod committee, major sponsors, the volunteers, teachers, competitors, families and everyone else who helps make the eisteddfod the success it is.

Two grand concerts were held on Saturday, one in the afternoon and another, with different performers, in the afternoon.

Dancer wins Liggins scholarship

DANCER Zac Dun is this year’s recipient of the Roma Liggins Perpetual Scholarship, presented during the Taree and District Eisteddfod grand concert.

Zac started dancing at the age of 12 with local dance teacher Krystle Molloy-Louis and then in 2010 transferred to continue his dance education with Andrea Rowsell.

At the age of 15, Zac was encouraged to try out for the prestigious Australian Ballet School and was accepted.

Only 17 people from across Australia are chosen each year.

After two years studying in Melbourne he has moved back to Taree and is now studying with the National College of Dance in Newcastle.