WHEN it comes to the Hastings own version of Dancing with the Stars, TAFE community relations officer Trisha McIntyre has at least one aspect nailed – the fund-raising.
But the dancing – well, she’s leaving that up to the judges to decide!
Trisha is one of nine identities strutting their stuff on the dance floor in a gala night at Rydges on Friday 29 November to raise money for the Cancer Council NSW.
All committed to raising a minimum of $3000 before the big night and for Trisha that came to pass last Thursday when she staged a successful indulgence night, with people turning out in droves to feast on food made by the TAFE students, washed down by the odd glass of wine or beer.
“We raised $2610, which means when added to the funds already raised online that I have reached my fund-raising goal of $3000,” a relieved Trisha said.
“I am very appreciative of the community’s generosity and am overwhelmed by the support that I have received.”
Trisha will be performing a swing number at the gala night with Rob Porter of Let’s Dance Rock and Roll School in Port Macquarie. Rob and his fiancée Cathy have been training Trisha two nights a week in the lead-up to the event.
“Luckily for me, they are also very passionate swing dancers, which is the dance style we will be performing at the Dancing with Hastings Stars,” Trisha said. “They often perform at community events and dance clubs and have a wealth of experience in public performances, so I’m very fortunate to be able to learn from them.
“At first, the routine was really difficult to remember, but I think we have a handle on it now and it just needs a little fine-tuning before the big event. I’ve never done any dance lessons before, but this particular dance style is so much fun that I can’t wait to share it!”
Trisha said she had a really good team of supporters behind her, including her family and colleagues at North Coast TAFE, so although the nerves might kick in on the night, she’d try and forget them and just do her best to make everyone proud.
While the dancing’s a big part of the event, Trisha also reminded people that the main aim of the Dancing with Hastings Stars was to raise funds for the Cancer Council NSW to assist them with a diverse range of community programs.
“All of the entrants are all grateful for any contributions to our donation pages, which can be found at http://doyourthing.cancercouncil.com.au and by searching for your favourite entrant,” she said.
Dancing with Hastings Stars will be held on Friday 29 November at Rydges in Port Macquarie. The 300 tickets sold out almost immediately.
Other dancers are Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams, Essential Energy’s Sandra Hollins, lawyer and councillor Justin Levido, owner of Lighthouse Beach Flavours Matt Relf, Prime 7 news reporter Ben Hennessy, Rydges and Sails marketing manager Kate Wood-Foye, Laing and Simmons real estate agent Kristian Murphy and Childish Photography’s Kylie Biltris.
Cancer council inquiries to Eliza on 6659 8403.
