Having started from humble beginnings the society was formed in 1972 driven by former shire president Shirley McHugh and the late Mrs Sheila Russell. With the first Eisteddfod up and running in 1973 it has grown now to over 2000 entrants annually, offering our local youth the rare opportunity of appearing on stage in their various categories of the Performing Arts. Many former entrants have gone on to become well known national and international representatives in their chosen art such as dance, ballet, singing, entertainment musicians, actors and playwrights to mention but a few.

The annual eisteddfod is the longest running and only diverse cultural event for our children in this region – however over the last 4 to 5 years it has become at risk ofbecoming a mere memory due to the lack of help in the organising and running of the categories.

The diversity of categories over the years have included stalwarts such as Speech & Drama, Musical Instruments, Debating and Dance while changing trends and needs within our community has seen some sections come and go - such as Highland & Scottish dancing and even at one stage Fancy Clog Dance.

The Annual Eisteddfod survives on the generous sponsorship and support of our community by way of services and cash donations from the likes of the C.ex Group (2011 Platinum Sponsor), Coffs Harbour Racing Club, many individuals and small businesses. Their donations coupled with the income derived from entry fees, general admissions, programme sales and raffle tickets just barely manage to cover the costs each year of running the event.

Costs continually are rising each year even with the generous discounts from local supporters, however financial and physical support have been steadily dropping each year.

The society awards over $14,000 in scholarships, trophies and cash prizes each year.

Meanwhile the whole event is driven and run by a stalwart crew of volunteers that are committed to offering local schools and our youth the cultural diversity and opportunities that otherwise would be restricted to Capital Cities. Unfortunately this group of organisers is getting smaller and smaller each year.

The Eisteddfod is an essential mechanism for local schools and the likes of dance companies & music teachers to profile their students and enable them valuable experience in public performance. With entrants coming from afar afield as Newcastle, Inverell and the Gold Coast the current committee warmly welcomes all and any volunteers to help run the 40th Annual event in 2012.

If you have a penchant or background in any of the arts, have children that like to perform in their chosen field or even just are able to help in some small way then the Society would be extremely happy to hear from you.