A GROUP of South East identities is poised to “swoon like Swayze” in one of the region’s highest profile charity events.
The event has lured a string of regional “stars”, including new recruit Ben Deering, who has been dubbed “The Tower Guy”.
Swinging with the Stars – the major fundraiser for philanthropic foundation Stand Like Stone – will deliver another impressive show at The Barn on Saturday, June 23.
Ben – who runs tours of Centenary Tower – is expected to bring new moves as he scales new heights on the dance floor.
Other Mount Gambier contestants include Lucy Von Stanke – from Presto Eatery – who cannot wait to step away from the kitchen and unleash her inner moves.
Grant High School teacher Liam Goodfellow will also pull on his dance shoes.
The line-up also includes Malseed Real Estate’s Alistair Coonan, Cape Jaffa’s Anna Hooper, Millicent accountant Steve Duldig, regional identity Laura Hawkins and Penola teacher Nicole Lear.
Since its inception, Swinging with the Stars has raised more than $517,000 for the Limestone Coast.
“It is the ongoing generosity of so many supportive local individuals and organisations that ensure the success of Swinging with the Stars,” according to Stand Like Stone patron and Swinging with the Stars committee chair Sue Charlton AM.
“Each year we reach a new audience through our ‘stars’ and we are always overwhelmed by the generosity and support they bring.”
Ms Charlton said for these people it was often their first experience of Swinging with the Stars, but some supporters have also been to every Swinging with the Stars since it began.
“We are incredibly grateful for all these relationships,” Ms Charlton said.
Hype Dance Studio principal Kim Cella will support the event for the fourth consecutive year with the help of choreographer Paris Ackland.
Ms Ackland has participated in Swinging with the Stars for three years as a dance partner and is looking forward to the challenge of transforming the 2018 stars.
“I’m really looking forward to the challenge of choreographing the routines and assisting the ‘stars’ to learn the genres,” Ms Ackland said.
“It is a privilege to be part of Swinging with the Stars for so many years and it is rewarding to be given the opportunity to develop my skills as a choreographer and take it to the next level.”
The “stars” are dancing to raise awareness and funds for the Stand Like Stone Foundation, the community foundation of the Limestone Coast.
All funds raised for Stand Like Stone are held in trust for the benefit of the region and the income earned is granted back to the local community through scholarships and grants for charitable projects.
Since its establishment in 2004, Stand Like Stone has distributed more than $1.14m to charitable projects, school students and educational scholarships, benefiting Limestone Coast communities.
Organisers are confident Swinging with the Stars will be another huge success in 2018 and are expecting a sell-out at the Barn Palais.
Tickets will be available at Chapman’s Newsagency from May 7.
For more information on the 2018 “stars” or to support your favourite “star” in the People’s Choice competition visit www.standlikestone.com.au to make a donation.
