Line Dancers Reports

 Line Dancing Group Annual Report – 2024/25  

2024 has been a vibrant and fulfilling year for our line dancing group. From community performances to theme days, it’s been a joy to see us grow in confidence, creativity, and camaraderie. This year, we averaged around 40 dancers at our Monday sessions and 15 on Thursdays—a wonderful turnout that speaks to the spirit of our group.

Special Event – The Dunedin Line Dancing Gala (DLDG)

A committed group of dancers represented us at the Gala in February, rehearsing through the festive break and finding an alternative venue to practice when needed.

The gala was the highlight of the year for those who attended. During a break in the programme, one of our members generously hosted us for lunch and a stroll through her beautiful garden—complete with homemade scones. A heartfelt thank you to Robyn Parker for this special gesture.

Classes and Activities

• Session Times
Mondays, sessions were extended to allow new beginners additional time on the floor before the more experienced dancers arrived. This provided them with an opportunity to learn and practice the basic steps at their own pace.

Thursday sessions were extended to 1.5 hours, providing experienced dancers with more time to learn and practice dances that are more challenging than those taught at the beginner level.

• Theme Days
We marked the calendar with fun and colour through theme days including St Patrick’s Day, Bee Aware, Spanish/Mexican Fiesta, Halloween, and Christmas. Costumes, raffles, and themed dances made each one special.

• Annual Lunches
Both Monday and Thursday groups enjoyed the opportunity for a really good natter during their annual lunch at a local tavern.

Community Connection

• Invitation to dance at Redroofs Rest Home (22 May)

Due to limited floor space, a small group of us danced at Redroofs, sharing music and memories with the residents. A simple but meaningful way to connect through dance.

• Our South Dunedin Community Hall’s 25th Anniversary
We joined this special celebration alongside other local groups who use the hall regularly, showcasing the talent and diversity in our shared space.

Giving Back

We were fortunate to have the funds to allow us to contribute to: the RSA, The Dunedin Night Shelter, Dunedin 60 Plus Marching Team, Otago Community Hospice, and Nations Church Blessing Box Fund

Appreciation

We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to the local Nations Church, which continues to generously allow our dancers to use their carpark during our sessions. This ongoing support is a real blessing, given how challenging parking can be in the South Dunedin area. We’re truly grateful for their kindness and community spirit.

A special thanks to Peggy, who manages our hall bookings so helpfully, and to Tom Naylor and the Rock & Roll Club for lending us their fabulous posters for our Rock & Roll theme day.

A big thank you also goes to our supportive Club President, Moira—who dances with us and always brings laughter to the room—and to Len, our fabulous Secretary, whose advice and assistance we truly value.

A heartfelt thank you to the small group who quietly lend a hand each week—setting up, packing down, and supporting behind the scenes. Your efforts remind us that it takes a team to keep things running and make space for the fun we all enjoy.

Finally, to all of our dancers: thank you for your energy, laughter, and loyalty. You make every session a joy. It’s a privilege to be part of this wonderful line dancing family.

Lorraine Macmillan Line Dance Coordinator