Western Australia dances up a storm in Sydney

By Sharnye Farrell Dancers from Western Australia have polished their shoes, put on their finery and danced their way to gold at the Australasian Championships in Sydney. Held by The Society of Australian Teachers of Dancing, the competition took place earlier this month at Club Marconi. Four dance studios from Western Australia flew to Sydney to compete in the day’s competition. Danielle Courtney, dance teacher at InStep Dance Studio in Bellevue, supported 16 of the studio’s top students aged seven to 17. Danielle says the students handled the day smoothly and were able to make quick outfit changes whilst having fun and enjoying the experience. “WA has always been known for having amazing dancers and this was no exception,” she said. Combined, the students from InStep won 33 trophies and 28 Medallions over the day’s events. The competition consisted of individual, social and team events within different age groups. These events were judged in three dance styles – Latin, Modern and New Vogue – which tested the technique and skills of the competitors. Sixteen year old Kimberley Courtney, who competed in the event, says that working towards and achieving a goal is a rewarding part of dancing. “Competing as part of a team and winning together was the best part of the day,” said Kimberley. “Seeing everybody from my team win something and not go home empty handed made me very proud.” Danielle recommends ballroom dancing for all ages as it is a sport which challenges the mind, body and soul whilst being a social and fun experience. Dance teams from Sydney are expected to be competing in WA’s ballroom dancing competitions next year with more competitions coming up this year.