Brady Jones from Bombala High School and Mistin Kidman from Bombala Primary were both nominated to take a trip to Sydney to learn from some of the country’s best dance performers.

The pair – both members of the Monaro Dance Centre – participated in a range of different dance classes, with a number of different teachers, extending their already impressive repertoire of dance skills.

Around 60 public school students from across the state took part in the primary workshop, learning techniques in jazz, ballet and contemporary dance.

The workshop was offered through the Department of Education arts unit giving students in public schools from all around the state a unique opportunity each year to work with professional dancers in a workshop situation.

The students gain acceptance to the workshop through an application process which must be supported by the student's school.

“It was so much fun!” Mistin said on her return to school.

“I met a new friend and her name is Miller and she is such a good dancer. I met her in my first class when we did most of our floor work. We have been friends ever since, she is so nice.

“I was so excited when I first walked in and I was so amazed it was so big!

"In the first class we stretched and did some floor work, we had to introduce ourselves with a move and I did a kick and a leap. I also made up a move it was so weird!

“Our second class was all about ballet and posture, we had to pretend that we had a bucket in our stomach and if we lent over the bucket would tip.

“I had a fantastic time and would love to do it again one day.”

The following week, 40 high school students from across NSW, including Brady, enjoyed workshops including musical theatre with Ramon Doringo, contemporary with Xanthe Geeves and Tiana Canterbury, Afro jazz and hip hop. Pilates were also a part of a class.

“The studios were amazing,” Brady said.

“I worked really hard and learnt some really good choreography from the dance tutors.”

Brady  had support from the Tim Draxl Performing Arts Fund and was lucky enough to be taken for a milkshake and a chat with Tim. Brady and his family would like to Thank TDPAF for its ongoing support.

Both students were congratulated and thanked for their outstanding representation of their respective schools at the prestigious venue.