The DanceSport Australia National Championship Event (D.A.N.C.E.) is coming to Wollongong on the weekend of June 24 and 25, 2017.
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DanceSport is competitive ballroom and latin dancing and the annual championship has run for 35 years in Canberra.
But from 2017 the Australian Institute of Sport venue is no longer available.
Illawarra DanceSport enthusiasts Sandy Rae and Brian Horan said the organisers held talks with Destination Wollongong and the event is now confirmed to take place at the WEC next month. And if Wollongong does it well the economic benefits are likely to flow on.
“Based on the success of the event in the first year, there is an opportunity to lock it in for the Illawarra for a further three to five years,” Ms Rae said.
And that is significant because the event will bring over 600 competitors, more than 150 officials and 1500 spectators to Wollongong over three days.
Almost 80 per cent of the visitors are from interstate and some are from New Zealand.
“DanceSport is what used to be referred to as competitive Ballroom Dancing and it is now recognised by the International Olympic Committee, “ Ms Rae said.
“The demographic of those who participate is wide and varied. And age categories range from children under 10 through to adults. There is also masters division for over 65’s. The event will accommodate events for all levels of dancer and dance enthusiast - from social and first time competitors competing in recreational divisions through to Australian champions in the top open, amateur and professional categories. DanceSport sits between being a sporting and lifestyle activity. It aims to promote and foster positive social skills, tolerance, understanding and team work as well as promote the health and fitness benefits of taking part in this sport.”
Ms Rae said Mercedes Benz Wollongong and CMG Audio Visual had come on board as naming rights sponsors for the event and will help produce a high quality event showcasing the capability of the region. Tickets to the competition will be sold through Ticketmaster.
Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
