By Natasha Fujimoto
WITH a slow, quick and sidestep the Seniors Citizens Centre comes alive with laughter and movement as the Shepparton Social Sequence Dancing (SSSD) group takes to the floor every Wednesday afternoon and evening.
Bringing happy faces and dancing shoes, the SSSD group enjoy dances that include steps from traditional ballroom dancing, including Quickstep, Tango, Foxtrot and Waltz in a predetermined sequence.
Initiating the group in July 2022 for people who simply want to have fun and enjoy themselves, Gail Cook has brought together a jovial group of dancers who have become more like a family over time.
Effusive about the significant impact the sessions have had on their lives, the group is unanimous about the positive health and social wellbeing benefits the dancing has had on their lives.
“Dancing has 77 percent more benefit than any other physical activity and is also excellent for the memory,” Gail said before adding, “The atmosphere here when people are dancing is full of laughter and learning and although it may take new dancers up to six months to learn the steps, they are moving and keeping their health in check, while stimulating their mind.”
Indominable in her passion, Gail said it is the social dances held every second Saturday that are the real highlight.
“Dance clubs from all over north-eastern Victoria come together to catch-up and dance the night-away, with members also have the chance to win donated raffle prizes from Dan Murphy and McIntyres Family Butchers (amongst others) as well.”
If you would like to dance and laugh your way to friendship and good health, no matter if you are a beginner or more advance call Gail on 0412 858 019.
