Sienna Westcott named recipient of the 2026 RAD Australian Advanced 1 Bursary

15 June 2026 06:13

Three people on a blue stage a smiling young dancer in a peach tutu holds a certificate flanked by an older woman with a small brown dog and a man in black

Group of ballet dancers in costumes on stage holding flowers and certificates after a performance award ceremony — Image credit Belinda Strodder

The Royal Academy of Dance Australia is delighted to announce Queensland dancer Sienna Westcott as the winner of the 2026 Australian Advanced 1 Bursary, held on Sunday 14 June at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School in Melbourne.

Representing DE Studios & HQ Classical Coaching, Sienna impressed adjudicators with her artistry, technical strength and performance quality, emerging as the recipient from an exceptional group of young dancers representing five states and territories across Australia.

Recognised as one of the premier student ballet events on the national calendar, the Advanced 1 Bursary provides a platform for talented RAD students to further develop their performance experience while celebrating excellence in classical ballet training. Generously sponsored by Bloch Australia, the bursary includes a $5,000 award to support the winner’s ongoing dance training and artistic development.

The finalists began the day with an open class led by respected RAD examiner Kerrie Smith, accompanied by pianist Akiko Loong, before presenting classical variations and their contrasting ‘Dancer’s Own’ piece for adjudicators Ross Hannaford and Lindsay Ellman-Brown. The adjudicators commended the dancers on the outstanding standard displayed throughout the competition.

The 2026 finalists were:

ACT: Camilla Machado, Kim Harvey School of Dance
NSW: Anna Stephensen, Dance North Academy
QLD: Sienna Westcott, DE studios & HQ Classical Coaching
SA: Bundjalung Coker, Terry Simpson Studios
VIC: Chloe Lahood, Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School

Lia Cox, RAD Head of Department – Examinations and Regions, praised the calibre of this year’s finalists and the ongoing impact of the program:

“The Australian Advanced 1 Bursary continues to showcase the remarkable depth of talent emerging across the country. This year’s candidates demonstrated not only exceptional technical skill, but also artistry, musicality and a genuine commitment to their craft. The standard was incredibly high, making the adjudicators’ task both challenging and inspiring. Congratulations to all participants, teachers and families whose dedication and support contribute to the success of this prestigious program. We are proud to celebrate and encourage the next generation of dance artists through opportunities such as the Advanced 1 Bursary.”

Now in its third decade, the Australian Advanced 1 Bursary remains an important part of RAD Australia’s commitment to supporting and nurturing emerging dancers. Many previous recipients have gone on to represent Australia at the Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition and pursue careers with leading dance companies around the world.

The Royal Academy of Dance congratulates Sienna on this outstanding achievement and extends thanks to all finalists, teachers, adjudicators, families and supporters who contributed to the success of the event.