Grace Swadling, 20, has joined the likes of Brandon McClelland and Kirby and Ashley Burgess on the list of Eurobodalla acting stars.

The University of New South Wales student was recently recognised with the Cate Blanchett award for Excellence in Theatre and Performance Studies, which included $500 prize money. 

“It was amazing and very humbling. It was a big honor because I have been a fan of Cate Blanchett for a really long time. To have an award in her name is really cool,” she said. 

“I didn’t even know it was an award you could win with the university. It was a nice surprise.”

Ms Swadling was disappointed Cate Blanchett was unable to present the award but had a large family contingent in the audience. 

Her acting journey began in Cooma when she was five. Ms Swadling then honed in on her skills when she joined The Bay Theatre Players at the age of nine. 

She then completed years 11 and 12 at the Newtown Performing Arts School. 

“I started quite young,” Ms Swadling said. 

“I had such a wonderful experience at The Bay Theatre Players which moved me to audition for the performing arts school.

“I knew theatre was what I wanted to do with my life so I took the step, moved to Newtown and now I am at university. 

“My family are so supportive and they always encourage me to follow my dreams. I wouldn’t be in Sydney doing what I am doing without their support.”

Ms Swadling hopes to be performing full time in five years. 

“I am coming to the end of my three-year degree. I finish at the end of the year.

“Next year, I hope to get into an acting university so that will be a further three years of study.

“Hopefully, in the next five years, I will be out there doing shows and performing.”

She has not ruled out TV, but said theatre was her passion. 

“I have been looking to do everything,” Ms Swadling said. 

“I love it so much. I was recently the lead female role in a Shakespeare production. 

“The award has really given me a boost.”