Forty years after a small group of volunteers set out to create more opportunities for local young performers, the Quota Beenleigh City of Logan Eisteddfod continues to inspire thousands across the region.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026, the eisteddfod has grown from a modest three day event into one of the regions longest running arts programs, welcoming performers across dance, music, speech and drama.
Coordinator Karen Murphy said the milestone represented decades of dedication from volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped transform the event into what it is today.
“Our 40th anniversary would not have occurred if not for the foresight, perseverance and commitment of those Quota members and volunteers who have put in the hard years over the preceding 39 years,” Ms Murphy said.
“Nor would it have continued without the support of our sponsors from local government, local businesses, local supporters and Quota members.”
Beginning in 1986, the eisteddfod has provided generations of students with opportunities to perform on stage, receive expert feedback and develop confidence in their chosen artform.
“Forty years of changing lives of students in the fields of dance, music and speech and drama.
“Forty years of giving opportunities to perform, to showcase their skills and to help them improve their craft,” Ms Murphy said.
The idea began when Quota member Moya McKeon proposed creating an eisteddfod to support young people in the area and provide access to performance opportunities and adjudication.
With the backing of the Quota Club of Beenleigh and an initial allocation of $1000, a public meeting was held to measure local interest.
Teachers and community members quickly united behind the concept and what was started as a local initiative soon became an annual tradition.
Over the decades, the event has evolved significantly.
Schedules that were once posted by mail, handwritten receipts and in-person accompaniment have now been replaced by online entries, digital uploads and social media updates.
Despite the technological changes, their purpose has stayed the same.
“We get great joy from seeing the performances and realising that we are making a difference in the lives of these young people,” Ms Murphy said.
“Some perform for the very first time on a stage. Others are honing their skills. Others are dreaming of the future – when their dreams come true with performing day and night in their chosen field.”
Today, the event attracts more than 25,000 people and includes solo and group performances across music and dance.
Highlights of this year’s program include the Songbird Bursary, school choirs, instrumental ensembles, pop and rock band showcases and group dance competitions.
Funds raised through the Eisteddfod help support Quota Beenleigh’s local service initiatives including QuoCKa Reading, Feel the Music Day for deaf and hard-of-hearing students and Quota Cares programs for schools.
Ms Murphy said continuing the event’s legacy remained a source of pride.
“I wasn’t here at the beginning 40 years ago when the three-day event began. Now, I am proud to be coordinating this event 40 years later when it is more than 10 times as large.”
Known as ‘the Friendly Eisteddfod’, organisers hope audiences continue supporting performers and helping the event grow for decades to come.
“We love it,” Ms Murphy said.
“It’s like going to a concert each and every day and seeing performers give of their best.”
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