MOUNT Gambier Hospital staff member Mathew Nebu will throw on his “Bollywood” shoes this weekend to raise money for the sub-standard renal dialysis unit.
In the biggest hospital fundraiser in more than a decade, a string of well-known residents will join Mr Nebu on stage tomorrow night in what promises to be a “Bollywood extravaganza” at The Barn.
While during working hours Mr Nebu can be found managing the cramped dialysis unit, when he clocks off Mr Nebu transforms into a dynamic dancer who has all the moves seen in Bollywood movies.
Born and raised in India, a pint-size Mr Nebu learnt his craft from watching television as a youngster that culminated in an enduring passion for the dancing genre.
Mr Nebu will take centre stage in a vibrant sherwani costume, which is traditionally worn for special occasions.
A show-stopper of his outfit is his dazzling red shoes, which are called juttis.
“I love to dance – it is my passion,” Mr Nebu said in the lead-up to this weekend’s gala event.
“While I love dancing, I am much more passionate about this weekend’s fundraiser because it is raising money for the renal dialysis unit I manage.
“I have a talent for dancing and I thought it is a great platform to raise money.”
Mr Nebu – along with fitness instructor Nikki Ackland – has been busy teaching Bollywood moves to up to 30 local personalities who will entertain the crowd in a glamorous floor show.
“All the dancers are doing a fantastic job of learning the traditional Indian moves,” Mr Nebu said.
Veteran Mount Gambier staff member Teresa Bueti and passionate community member Maureen Klintberg have been busy behind the scenes organising the event.
Meanwhile, Mr Klintberg said she was buoyed with ticket sales now surpassing 400.
“We have some amazing items to auction thanks to a lot of generous friends and sponsors,” she said.
As a result of community involvement in recent weeks, she said the fundraising committee had already been able to order a $5000 blanket warmer for the unit.
Harvey Norman has also donated a television and Hitec Leading Appliances a toaster oven.
The Rotary Club of Mount Gambier has also given $10,000 to purchase a portable electrocardiography machine.
“Our ultimate goal though is to achieve an upgrade of the dialysis unit – the ball will support this goal,” Ms Klintberg said.
The evening at The Barn will feature compere Steven Whelan and the unforgettable floor show with the Bollywood dancers.
Tickets can be purchased at Commodore on The Park, Birdie Blue and Mount Gambier Hospital.
