St Raphael’s Catholic School has completed it's time at the 2025 Cowra Eisteddfod with outstanding results across music, dance, and drama—culminating in winning both the Mary Shean Trophy for the most successful Primary and Infants Choir, and the prestigious Cowra Bus Service Trophy for overall most successful school.
Year 6 set the tone early, winning the Primary Speech and Drama Section with their vibrant, humorous and fantastically costumed play about being kind ...not just at Christmas!
The Infants Choir took to the stage (100 students strong!) performing in unison to earn first place for their two contrasting performances. The adjudicator praised their song choices, discipline, and enthusiasm.
The Primary Choir followed with a culturally rich performance of the Japanese song “Haru Ga Kita” and a powerful rendition of “The Greatest Love of All,” also earning first place. Their multilingual efforts, pronunciation, and solo and ensemble work were especially commended.
In the Secondary Band section, students thrilled the audience with high-energy performances of Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” and “Count on Me,” reflecting their teamwork and musicianship, especially through standout solos on violin and saxophone.
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The Staff Choir brought energy and comic relief to the stage with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” dressed as nuns in a nod to Sister Act, receiving roaring applause from their small band of supporters!
In the dance categories, the Secondary Dance Team delivered an emotional, lyrical performance led by student choreographers, scoring 83/100 and earning Highly Commended. The Secondary Cheer Squad also earned a Highly Commended, returning with energy and precision after their Heritage Day debut.
The Primary Dance group performed a dynamic “Red” routine inspired by Descendants, with vibrant costumes and strong teamwork, also earning a Highly Commended in a tough field of seven schools.
Principal Michelle Deschamps was delighted with the school's commitment to the Cowra Eisteddfod, saying the results are “a true reflection of our students’ talent, dedication, and the supportive school culture that celebrates the arts.”
A heartfelt thank you goes to accompanist Alison Cozadinos, the Cowra Eisteddfod Committee, Cowra Ballet School and Grenfell Musical and Dramatic Society (for hire of costumes) and all staff, students, and families who contributed to the event’s success.
St Raphael’s continues to proudly hold its place as a shining star in the Cowra performing arts scene.
