Semi-retired music teacher Antoinette Raynal is establishing a Hummingsong contemporary choir in the area as a “refreshing and energetic” way for women to network but also raise money for Illawarra women’s refuges “quietly in the background”.

“There’s a vibe. The energy of [singing] is so good mentally, physically, and emotionally. Then the icing on the cake, just without doing anything really overt but nicely on the side, we cover that other agenda for women,” Ms Raynal said.

Anna Humberstone created the first Hummingsong on the Northern Beaches by in 2012 but her vision quickly spread to include five other choirs around Sydney plus one in the Netherlands and another currently being established in Holland.

Through performances each choir raises money to support women’s organisations with a focus on help with domestic violence.

The Shellharbour chapter will be called Katandra and begin on May 2 (no audition needed), running each Tuesday during public school terms.

Repertoire will include contemporary acapela arrangements from artists such as James Morrison, Christine Anu, Sia, Lior, Darren Percival, The Idea of North and Moira Smiley.

To join or for more information visit: www.hummingsong.com.au