Mrs Troon is the latest committee president for the Muswellbrook & Upper Hunter Eisteddfod, taking over the reins after the retirement of long-serving president Chris Rogers.

Mrs Troon has been part of the eisteddfod’s organising group for more than a decade.

She was convenor of the school choirs and bands section for 11 years, then volunteer coordinator and secretary for the past three years.

She said the chance to take to the stage is the highlight for eisteddfod entrants.

“The best thing is having the chance to perform, but also getting expert feedback from the adjudicators,” Mrs Troon said.

“The contestants can then use the critique of their performance to improve, especially in preparation for exams.”

Planning for this year’s event is in full swing.

“We’ve got all the adjudicators booked and we’re just waiting for all those entries to flood in,” Mrs Troon said.

“Entries for our first category close on April 4, so it really isn’t that far away.”

And helpers are always in demand to put the show together.

“We’re forever looking for volunteers,’ Mrs Troon told the Chronicle.

“There are a number of roles that people can help in, from being in the canteen providing tea and coffee, to collecting entries, being MC, recording on the computer and paperwork for the adjudicators.

“Or if they want a bigger more permanent role, we always welcome more people on the committee.”

To become a volunteer, further information is available on the website https://sites.google.com/site/muheisteddfod/home or phone Suzie Troon on 6541 2094.