Contrary to sceptics who said it would never capture the public interest, the Mouth Organ Band Contest is greeted with rapturous applause. A suggestion is made that Banjo and Steel Guitar be included at the next Competitions.
Disaster! The Coliseum, which seats 8,000 patrons, burns down is “destroyed in 35 minutes.’ A stunned Ballarat public views the ruins as South Street is left without a home. Letters of sympathy pour in from all over the Commonwealth and the Lord Mayor of Melbourne and Premier of South Australia offer to host the 1937 competitions. Instead, a “Carry On” Appeal is launched and donations provide the funds to move the 1937 Eisteddfod to the Alfred Hall.
The Ballarat National Theatre is founded and the first production, “The Barretts of Wimpole Street is performed at the Alfred Hall two years later.
His Majesty King George V dies and the Committee offers their heartfelt sympathy to members of the Royal family.
