Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre will twirl into action on Saturday night for the Cancer Council supported fundraising event Stars of Wollongong.
The event is a spin-off of the hit television series Dancing with the Stars, and will host 14 personalities from the Wollongong region.
As the event enters its fourth year, Stars of Wollongong has already raised $310,000 for the Cancer Council NSW.
“So far the event is tracking very well, we have raised $130,000 and we are expecting it to reach $150,000 by the commencement of the event on Saturday,” Cancer Council of NSW community relations coordinator Sari Boscherio said.
“In 2018, we raised 100,000 dollars in total, but this year we have already exceed that amount, which is amazing.”
Since its first production in 2015, Stars of Wollongong has increased in numbers and popularity. The first show had a turnout of just over 300 spectators. Since then, the event has gained in popularity, with 2018 boasting an audience over 500.
Dancer and cancer survivor Luke Rollinson is entering Stars of Wollongong for the first time.
“I have always wanted to give back to these organisations that supported me and my family through our ordeal,” Mr Rollinson said.
“This opportunity came up to raise some funds for the Cancer Council and support other families who are fighting cancer.”
Going into this Saturday, Mr Rollinson has raised almost $20,000.
“For the past 12 weeks, we have been doing dance lessons and training a couple of times a week. I’m looking forward to Saturday night for sure,” he said.
The stars involved include local athletes, social and fitness influencers, radio hosts and journalists who have been partnered and training with professional dancers for the last 12 weeks.
All funds raised go to the Cancer Council of NSW for research and local cancer care services.
Doors open 5:30pm at WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong, tickets are available online.
Feature image curtesy of Cancer Council NSW
Infographic data from:
‘Cancer in Australia”- Commonwealth of Australia 2019