The event normally runs in September each year at Hosham’s Wesley Performing Arts Centre.

However occupational health and safety issues at the centre and uncertainty about its reopening forced eisteddfod organisers to cancel this year’s event.

The eisteddfod offers music students a chance to showcase their skills in vocal, string, piano, brass and woodwind disciplines.

Letitia Dowling is part of a group working to return the eisteddfod to the Wimmera performing arts calendar in 2019.

The group has booked Horsham Town Hall for the event from Friday July 26 to Sunday July 28.

“I had never been on the eisteddfod committee, but my daughter was in the eisteddfod two years ago, and I had performed in it years ago,” Mrs Dowling said.

“I didn't want to see it fold. A few of us have formed a committee.

“It's early days yet, but we are probably looking at a similar format to previous years.”

Mrs Dowling said the event was often the first chance music students had to perform competitively.

“It is such a good event for the area,” she said.

“We would like the eisteddfod to become a permanent fixture once again, and for the region to continue to embrace the arts.

“We've sent emails to all the teachers and schools we had contact details for, but if we have missed anyone we encourage them to get in contact with us, along with volunteers or potential sponsors.”

Mrs Dowling said people interested in the eisteddfod could email wimmeramusiceisteddfod@gmail.com.