A CAIRNS pensioner was so moved when he read of the cancellation of the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge that he mailed $1000 to The Cairns Post to help save the dance event.
Feeling that the drug and alcohol-free event for young people was "exactly what we need more of", Tevor Hardinge wrote to The Cairns Post - and enclosed $1000 cash in $100 notes.
Read Trevor Hardinge's call to action
Twenty-seven Rock Eisteddfod and J Rock competitions were cancelled across the country this week after its foundation failed to secure enough government cash and corporate sponsorship to meet rising costs.
Although the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge Foundation expects the national competition to return next year, Mr Hardinge worried for those Far Northern children who would miss out in 2010.
The Far Northern competition, which regularly involved more than 1500 students, was scheduled for June 11 at the Cairns Convention Centre.
"Its cancellation must not be allowed to happen," Mr Hardinge said.
"I am putting my money where my mouth is and delivering $1000 cash to get the ball rolling."
Devastated students are hoping there might be more people like Mr Hardinge in the community and that an independent Rock Eisteddfod for the Far North will be held to fill the gap this year.
Cairns State High School year 12 student Gabby Davis was one youth who hoped to see a one-off Far Northern competition run in place of the national event.
"That would be the best thing to happen," she said.
Ms Davis, who has been dancing since age four, said she had looked forward to taking part in Rock Eisteddfod for the last time.
She said it was "unbelievable" that it was cancelled.
School vice-captain Taylor Williams said students had been preparing for auditions, which were scheduled for next week.
She also supported the idea of hosting a local competition.
"It would definitely be an amazing idea," she said.
Cairns High teachers Carolyn Blyth and Glyn Donaghy welcomed the idea of hosting a local competition for schools.
Register your interest in this event by emailng theeditor@tcp.newsltd.com.au or call 4051 6627.
