MOUNT Gambier Eisteddfod producer Backstage Incorporated celebrated a milestone over the weekend with past and current members coming from far and wide to mark its 40th birthday.
A dinner was held on the Saturday night at the Mount Gambier RSL following a well-attended annual general meeting held on the Tuesday, with Michelle Nicholls being returned as president.
Vice president was announced as Robyn Hillyer, secretary as Maxine Chalinor, treasurer as Ruth Hansard with the committee members as Adam Taylor, Tony Chalinor, Heather Lucas, Sarah Mosford McGregor, Merry Dickins, Peter Munn and Hannah Morrison.
“Both events were well attended and proved to be a very enjoyable weekend with people being able to catch up again,” Ms Chalinor said.
“Photo albums and scrap books were put on display and created a lot of interest as people reminisced.”
Organisers said it was a successful weekend as many seemed reluctant to go home, catching up with old friends and chatting to new members.
The birthday cake was cut by the first president of Backstage Maxine Chalinor OAM and first life member Kevin G Hein.
Backstage is now working on the 2018 Mount Gambier Eisteddfod.
New schools from Adelaide will compete this year in the dance division, which will be adjudicated by Christopher Favaloro, who has just finished a very successful season as Mr Mistoffelees in Cats.
Christopher will also deliver contemporary workshops at the completion of the dance division.
Calisthenics organisers also hope for some new teams competing, having had enquiries from several Victorian clubs that have not competed at Mount Gambier before.
Well known musician and Backstage patron Bill Broughton will adjudicate the music and master classes are also being considered for the division.
Choral and vocal will have another of the Backstage patrons, Will Conyers, adjudicating.
Mr Conyers is well known for his musical work in Melbourne and as a mentor to young talent.
Backstage also offers debating and speech and drama competitions and praised ongoing support of the two divisions by Lions Club of Mount Gambier.
