Mrs Nolan will see through this year's event, to be held in the coming months, but has decided she will then step aside from the president's role to allow for new blood to come through.

Her long-running association with the society started before she even became an official committee member.

Mrs Nolan's daughter was a regular competitor in the ballet and revue section of the eisteddfod, with the pair regularly attending over the years.

It was here Mrs Nolan's interest in the event grew and once her daughter had finished school, she put her hand up to officially be part of the committee.

The president's role followed quickly after and it is a position she has held for more than three decades.

IN OTHER NEWS:

While Mrs Nolan will step aside as president, her expertise and knowledge will still be close at hand.

"After a lot of thought, I've decided to step down as president after this year's eisteddfod, but I will still be on the committee," she said.

"I want to stay on in that capacity because I like it, but I just feel I've gotten to the point where it's time for some fresh ideas and someone younger to come on board.

"If we have new people come on board, they often tend to bring others with them. That's what we need."

Mrs Nolan has many memories from the eisteddfods of years gone by whether it be the friendships she has formed with fellow society and committee members, seeing people shine on stage or the fact she has played a vital role in keeping a unique Leeton event alive.

Mrs Nolan's commitment to the role has taken up countless hours, but it's something she was and still is passionate about.

"The big one for me is the friendships I have made over the years ... friends I maybe would not have made otherwise," she said.

"The eisteddfod is still such a wonderful event.

"Every year I remain blown away by the talent of the people who get up on stage.

"It's always been about having a go. You don't need to necessarily be the best."

For now Mrs Nolan's attention remains firmly fixed on ensuring these year's event goes off without a hitch, following on from last year's recess due to COVID-19 restrictions.

If you would like to become involved with the Leeton Eisteddfod Society, have a chat with Mrs Nolan or any of the other committee members to see what is involved.

"I will still be around helping out, it's something I love doing," Mrs Nolan said. "I'm extremely grateful to have been part of it for all these years."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: