This week more than 50 bushdancers gathered at the graduation for 23 new bushdancers who had taken part in the Jacana Bushdancers Fun, Fitness & Friendship course funded by the 10 000 Steps program Community Grant Scheme.

Participants in the six-week course were evenly divided between males and females, with ages ranging from the 20s to the over 50s.

Participants were very enthusiastic with almost 100% attendance rates, said Shirley Hopkins, Jacana President. Hilary Robinson, veteran bushdancer, who started bushdancing classes under a Rockhampton house in the 1980s, taught the newcomers two new dances each week at the Coker Community Hall.

CQU-based 10 000 Steps Project Officer, Anetta Hinchcliffe commended all members of the Jacana Bushdancing group for participating in a fun-filled, social six-week bushdancing program.

“This is a great way to be active and have fun” she said.

Laurie Widt was the winner of a pedometer (donated by 10,000 Steps) for having recorded 4579 steps in a one-hour session. Each participant had the opportunity to wear a pedometer during classes.

Newcomers are always welcome. Most of the dances are very lively with opportunity to get a few steps up. There’s always plenty of laughter and opportunity for a fun evening. For more information contact Shirley on 49261702 or Jean on 49273274.