NSW, QLD and SA Finalists Announced for 2026 Australian Advanced 1 Bursary
The Royal Academy of Dance Australia is pleased to announce the NSW, QLD and SA finalists in the 2026 Australian Advanced 1 Bursary, following the semi-finals held on Sunday 17 May.
This prestigious award recognises and supports emerging talent, offering a $5,000 bursary to assist with further classical ballet training in the RAD syllabus and associated pre-professional opportunities.
Each semi-final included an open class followed by the performance of a classical variation. We are proud to continue our strong connections with top industry professionals and dance companies across Australia and are sincerely grateful for the support of the following adjudicators and class teachers:
NSW (Sunday 17 May)
Class Teacher: Kerrie Smith | Adjudicator: Crystal Wong
QLD (Sunday 17 May)
Class Teacher: Nicole Galea | Adjudicator: Matthew Lawrence
SA (Sunday 17 May)
Class Teacher: Chylie Cooper | Adjudicator: Tony Bridgman
Following strong performances across all three states, we are pleased to announce the 2026 NSW, QLD and SA RAD Advanced 1 Bursary Finalists:
NSW Finalist: Anna Stephensen, Dance North Academy
QLD Finalist: Sienna Wescott, DE Studios & HQ Classical Coaching
SA Finalist: Bundjalung Coker, Terry Simpson Studios
These outstanding dancers will join the previously announced ACT finalist and the VIC finalist at the National Final in Melbourne on Sunday 14 June 2026, where one dancer will be awarded the $5,000 Australian Advanced 1 Bursary.
2026 Key Dates
Semi-finals:
ACT – Sunday 3 May (completed)
NSW, QLD, SA – Sunday 17 May (completed)
VIC – Sunday 31 May
National Final:
Sunday 14 June 2026 – Melbourne
