Entertainment
28 May, 2026
Dancers owned hall’s stage
YOUNG dancers from across the region lit up the stage with standout performances during the 43rd annual Innisfail and District Ballet and Dance Society competition, which drew impressive talent and big crowds to the Innisfail Shire Hall over eight days.
The long running event attracted competitors from Tully, Mission Beach, Innisfail, Cairns, Gordonvale, Mossman, Port Douglas, the Atherton Tablelands and Townsville, with dancers of all ages showcasing their skills across tap, classical, modern jazz, hip hop and more dance routines.
Adjudicator Roger Mouawad, an experienced Sydney-based choreographer and teacher, provided detailed and constructive feedback for each performer, supported by adjudicator’s secretary Alison Tierney from Townsville.
Local dancers shone throughout the week, securing first, second and third placings, along with very highly commended and highly commended awards, plus an array of trophies, medals and ribbons.
Ballet and Dance Society president Lina Calleja said the event continued to play a vital role in nurturing young performers.
“Every year our competition is growing,” she said. “We offer sections for all ages and the opportunity to compete in multiple categories, as well as championships across different age groups.
“Competitors get to perform in front of a live audience and receive valuable feedback from respected adjudicators, which is invaluable for their development.”
IDBDS results - 30 April 30 - 7 May
Waltz tap solo - 13 - 18 years
HC: Amity Stewart
Tap solo - 8 years
3rd: Savannah Ros
National solo - 18 years and under
1st: Amity Stewart
2nd: Arianna Ros
Modern jazz solo - 8 years
3rd: Savannah Ros
Tap solo - 9 years
HC: Laitlyn Binder
Speed tap solo 18 years and under
3rd: Amity Stewart
All abilities any style open age solo
1st: Ghislaine Ross
Musical theatre/cabaret solo - 18 years & under
3rd: Amity Stewart
Open age National group
1st: Dance Works Academy
Modern contemporary solo 15 - 18 years
VHC: Shekinah Goddard
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Tap solo - 15 - 18 years
HC: Amity Stewart
Modern jazz solo - 10 years
HC: Arianna Ros
Tap solo - 10 years
VHC: Arianna Ros
Slow/lyrical modern solo - 14 years
2nd: Isla Herrod
Contemporary solo - 14 years
1st: Isla Herrod
Modern contemporary solo - 12 years
2nd: Brailee Harding
Song & tap solo - 13 - 18 years
HC: Amity Stewart
Song & soft shoe solo - 13 - 18 years
VHC: Amity Stewart
Song & dance championship (song & soft shoe, then song & tap) 13 -18 years
2nd: Amity Stewart
Modern jazz solo - 12 years
1st: Brailee Harding
Song of choice (no dancing) 12 years & under
2nd: Olivia Ah Shay
Contemporary/lyrical modern duo - 18 years & under
2nd: Isla Herrod and Shekinah Goddard
Hip hop solo - 13 - 18 years
HC: Sebastian Vang
Major awards
Most Promising Cassowary Coast Dancer (all ages):
Amity Stewart
Read More: Innisfail