The Gunnedah Eisteddfod Society's online eisteddfod ranks among the state finalists in this year's Australian Event Awards.
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The annual eisteddfod is traditionally a face-to-face competition run over the course of a few months but this year could not go ahead because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, the society decided to launch an online eisteddfod so local youth wouldn't miss out on the chance to perform and compete.
Word spread about the innovative idea and soon the society decided to open it up to all states because so many eisteddfods had to be called off.
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Almost 700 entries were submitted through the eisteddfod's new website and there was plenty of positive feedback as the event provided a creative outlet in a time when things were grim.
Co-convenor Margaret Amos said it was "very exciting" that the event had been recognised on a state level.
"Our committee stepped up to meet the demand for creative and performing arts outlets where most were being cancelled across the country. We set out to provide a unique opportunity, and to do so in a welcoming and inclusive manner given the extreme uncertainty and isolation being experienced globally," she said.
"We're absolutely thrilled to be recognised by the Australian Event Awards, and would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our wonderful participants for being part of this special event, and to acknowledge the significant contribution of our adjudicators, local sponsors and supporters."
The award entries are judged on all aspects of event management, including best practice, innovation, marketing, stakeholder engagement and management, sustainability and event legacy.
- Winners will be announced on October 21.