Mackay Finalists Announced for the 2025 Shirley Treacy Awards

Mackay Finalists Announced for the 2025 Shirley Treacy Awards

On Sunday 10 August, young dancers from across the region took to the stage at The Theatre, Conservatorium of Music for the 2025 Shirley Treacy Awards – Mackay.

This year marked an exciting milestone, with candidates performing on stage for the first time before a live audience of family, friends, teachers, and esteemed adjudicator Julie-Anne Kerr. The day began with open classes in the morning, followed by solo performances from the selected regional finalists in the afternoon. The talent, artistry, and dedication on display made for an inspiring celebration of dance.

Adjudicator Julie-Anne Kerr said:

“It is lovely to come to the regions and see such wonderful work. Thank you to all the candidates for their beautiful work in the classes and to all the regional finalists for their solo performances.”

2025 Shirley Treacy Awards – Mackay Results

Grade 4 and 5
Honourable Mention:

• 101 – Elle Cummings, Leisa Payne School of Dance

Overall Award Finalists:

• 108 – Shiloh Sunnerdale, Leisa Payne School of Dance
• 112 – Owen Reed, Theatre Arts Mackay Dance Excellence

Intermediate Foundation and Intermediate
Honourable Mention:

• 201 – Lejla Bobongie-Harris, Leisa Payne School of Dance

Overall Award Finalists:

• 204 – Madeline Thompson, Leisa Payne School of Dance
• 208 – Abbie Oswald, Monique’s Classical Coaching

Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2
Honourable Mention:

• 304 – Ruby Meares, Leisa Payne School of Dance

Overall Award Finalists:

313 – Demi Minns, Leisa Payne School of Dance

311 – Marika Zarzecki, Monique’s Classical Coaching

These dancers will now join finalists from Townsville, Cairns, and Rockhampton in the running for the overall awards. The recordings of each overall finalist’s performance will be reviewed by guest adjudicators before the winners are announced at the Online Awards Presentation on Sunday 14 September, open for all to attend via Zoom.

Named in honour of Shirley Treacy OAM, a Townsville-born RAD life member and esteemed educator, these Awards reflect her lifelong dedication to dance and education. Winners of the Shirley Treacy Awards also have the opportunity to be fast-tracked as finalists for the prestigious 2026 Jacqueline Morland Awards.

Upcoming Shirley Treacy Award Events:

• Townsville – Sunday 31 August
• Cairns – Sunday 7 September
• Rockhampton – Sunday 7 September