Cool Cat Rockers president Stuart Barnes and Sandra Reither showing off their moves at a past club event.
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The mice might run up the clock, but the cats rock around it.
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Twenty-five years after Shepparton’s Cool Cat Rockers started rocking, they’re still rolling.
The dance group is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
The club started in 1999 with 12 members, who would meet at Mooroopna’s Royal Mail Hotel for lessons.
Rod Emerson was the group’s first dance instructor and the driving force behind the club.
Since then, the club has used several venues and seen many instructors, and member numbers have grown to more than 80.
Di Pungitore is the group’s current instructor.
She facilitates weekly lessons for members to learn new steps and dances, while socialising with friends made within the group.
Though the group is primarily about rock ‘n’ roll, some Latin and jive styles are incorporated into lessons.
Be sure to bring your dancing shoes to join in at the Cool Cat Rockers’ 25th anniversary celebration dance.
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In addition to the weekly lessons, the club hosts two or three dances each year to put members’ training into practice and enjoy supper while catching up with members from other clubs.
Dancers come from other clubs in Benalla, Cobram, Bendigo, Seymour and Ballarat.
“The public is welcome to attend but need good dancing shoes,” club member David Traeger said.
Mr Traeger believes rock ‘n’ roll dancing is one of the most rewarding activities he’s been involved in.
He said it aided memory, fitness, co-ordination, left- and right-brain exercise and social fun.
“Over the years, there have been many memorable dances and interesting social activities, including bus trips, dinners and Cup Day activities,” he said.
“The club has sparked great friendships and even several marriages.”
To celebrate their 25th anniversary, Cool Cat Rockers is holding a dance on September 21, from 7.30pm at Numurkah Town Hall, with live music by Melbourne band Rousers.
Tickets are $25 and can be booked by phoning Kaye on 5821 5465.
Weekly lessons cost $10 and are held on Tuesdays between 7pm and 9.30pm at Kialla Central Hall.
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