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Since its inception in 1980, Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® has been a part of the lives of millions of students, teachers and parents both in Australia, and as a result of the Global Rock Challenge™, the world. During this time the unique benefits of the event in terms of reaching young people with positive, educational and health messages has been recognised globally by leading politicians, health experts and educators.
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Hans Emblad, former Director of the World Health Organisation’s Program on Substance Abuse:
This (Rock Eisteddfod Challenge®) is the best prevention concept that I have come across in more than 25 years in international work on substance abuse. |
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The Hon Julia Gillard, then Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education, current Prime Minister of Australia 2010:
I am 100% committed to the good work done by the Rock Eisteddfod which provides such great opportunities to young people to socially engage and develop a range of skills in a fun, safe and positive environment. |
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The Hon John Howard, Former Prime Minister of Australia:
The Rock Eisteddfod Challenge®, which is an Australian creation, is a fine example of how our young people can achieve their best in an environment which is healthy, exciting and educational.
It is more than simply a youth event – it is an important health promotion vehicle which can be used to provide health and social information to young people about issues such as drug use.
Participating in the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® enables young people to develop effective approaches to social and professional situations which can be utilised throughout their lives – skills such as leadership and team work – as well as increased self esteem and a sense of achievement.
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Graeme Murphy, Artistic Director of Sydney Dance Company:
The Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® provides a fantastic opportunity for young Australians to find out first hand what it takes to create and perform a dance work in a theatrical context.
Some of these young performers may later actually choose a career in the performing arts while others may not, but none will forget the thrill of the performance.
I like to think the experience will leave each performer with a lifelong appreciation of dance – and not just them but also their families and friends who gather to watch and cheer.
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David Lyons, SAR Region Director, Coca-Cola South African Division 2004:
I would like to thank Peter Sjoquist and the Global Rock Challenge Team who have given so effortlessly of their time, energy and hearts in making this project a groundbreaking event in South Africa and for sharing this proving method of mobilizing the youth in countries across the globe to take charge of their lives.
We encourage other partners to join in this endeavour to building a strong and healthy nation in South Africa.
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The Hon Mike Rann MP, Premier of South Australia 2006:
The Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® provides a wonderful opportunity for young people to participate positively in an exciting environment with their peers, and have fun at the same time.
The well-being of South Australia’s young people is very important to the future of this State and I commend you for the role the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® plays in supporting young South Australians.
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Katherine Weare, Professor of Education, University of Southhampton 2005:
Involvement is not only for the performers but for all those who make it happen, such as art students designing the set and business studies studies accounting for the cash management and budget school ticket sales. The focus of the competition is on young people having fun and leading healthy lifestyles. |
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Dr Jack C. Chow, Assistant Director-General, HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, World Health Organization 2004:
Given the program’s direct and active participation by school youth, the Rock Challenge concept holds very high promise in bolstering both self-esteem and healthy behaviour, thereby reducing the incidence (in South Africa) of HIV and other associated illnesses. |
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The Hon Dr Brendan Nelson MP, Former Minister for Education, Science and Training:
The Be Your Best “Rock Eisteddfod” was held at the Dome in Johannesburg in October 2004 and was attended by 2 300 students from 27 schools from Johannesburg and surrounding townships. The event provided a unique opportunity for young people to participate in a diverse range of activities. The festival also included two nights of creative performances with the focus on young people being the best they can be without the use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs. |
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Professor Don Nutbeam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Head, College of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney 2003:
During 1999 to 2000 I supervised a research project to evaluate the impact on students of participation in the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge in Australia. Surveys were conducted at commencement of rehearsals and on completion of the competition in schools participating in the Rock Eisteddfod, and schools that were not participating. We found that students participating in the program demonstrated higher levels of resiliency than those from non participating schools.
This was also associated with lower levels of reported smoking, alcohol and drug mis-use amongst students from participating schools.
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