Dance clubs in Wollongong are not all just hip-hop and electro, with a group of veteran rockers working hard to keep the spirit - and music - of the 1950s and '60s alive.
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Westside Rockers began 12 years ago as a social club at Wests Illawarra, as an avenue for rock'n'roll dancing in Wollongong.
The club holds monthly dance events at venues around the region, with a live band belting out classic hits from the golden era of rock'n'roll.
"It's about social dancing," club president Carol Hargrave said.
"We do rock dancing, as well as cha cha, partner dancing, swing, and a bit of line dancing."
While many members join to relive the music and dances of their youth, Mrs Hargrave said the club also catered for new or younger members who wanted to learn the steps. They hold practice sessions each Tuesday night at Wests Illawarra, where members teach other moves.
"We're not a dance school, but everyone is quite happy to show moves," Mrs Hargrave said.
"We've had quite a few people who never danced before, and we've got them up dancing."
In addition to their monthly dances, Westside Rockers have also taken part in fund-raising dance-a-thons, performed at Relay For Life, and held rock'n'roll dance nights for children of Camp Quality.
"We consider ourselves a community club. We like to do things for the community as well as enjoy ourselves," Mrs Hargrave said.
The next dance is tonight at the Illawarra Leagues Club. Full Throttle Rockers will play, starting at 8pm.
