Entries for the music, and speech and drama sections close on Friday, April 13, with a hope for higher numbers.

Music co-convenor Trish Studdy said entries for the music sections were “fairly light on” at the moment.

“We are encouraging everybody to be involved. It’s always a very successful eisteddfod,” she said.

“We delight in what the students and teachers produce each year. We greatly anticipated their entries into this year’s eisteddfod.”

Ms Studdy said the eisteddfod was a great training ground to hone skills and abilities.

“The development and extension of a multitude of areas of ability are enhanced through being involved in such cultural events as the eisteddfod,” she said.

“It’s a great way to show your skills and be involved in the community whether as an individual or in a small or large group situation.

“It can lead to a career in the cultural precinct as you get older.”

Numerous locals who regularly participated in the eisteddfod have gone on to see success, including Kalin Eade and Jerome Studdy.

This year’s adjudicator will be Luke Byrne from Sydney. The adjudicator for the speech and drama section, Bronwyn Lim, also hails from Sydney.

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Speech and drama convenor Jenny Darley said there are three sections in every new age group this year.

“Entries have already started coming in, which is lovely,” she said.

“I’m available to help if they’re having trouble choosing something.”

Ms Darley said speech is vital for daily life and drama was a good channel for creative expression.

“I think speech and drama is terribly important for children to give them confidence to stand up and talk in crowds and also today in high school, they always have to present themselves, and going out and getting jobs, you have to present yourself,” she said.

“Doing it at a young age is a great help.”

The convenor said being involved in the eisteddfod was a valuable experience.

“Competing is the main thing; it’s not about winning as far as I’m concerned,” she said. 

“If they enter and have a go, they’re far better off than sitting at home.”

Entry forms can be submitted online by emailing the appropriate convenor(s) or dropping them into Second Edition Book Store or Fashion Fabrics. Contact details for the convenors are listed on the 2018 syllabus, which can be accessed online at http://www.thecivic.com.au/index.php/en/community/annual-events/gunnedah-annual-eisteddfod

No late entries will be accepted.