
A local dance crew has cross shuffled, hip bumped and pony stepped their way to a series of great results at the recent LineUp line dancing event in Christchurch.
A large group travelled to the Lincoln Event Centre in Christchurch for the LineUp line dancing event on Friday, 14 August and Saturday, 15 August, taking part in competitions, workshops and hoedowns.
Chelsee Tapper won the adult solo 30+ section, while Chelsee and Shelley Furness also claimed first place in the duo 30+ category.
Vicki Ryan received a commendation in the adult solo 65+ section, while Lesleigh McLachlan and Tina Coppins placed third in the duo 50+ category.
Special recognition went to Motueka dancers Sue Wilson and Danuta Newport, who were honoured for their contribution not only to line dancing but also to the wider community.
The pair received the prestigious Sweet As award for “turning their love of line dancing into something bigger”.
Through years of social events, raffles and dance-a-thons, they have raised money for myriad causes, including more than $100,000 for Nelson Tasman Hospice since 2017.
The award citation described it as “an amazing achievement and a wonderful example of what can happen when our line dance community comes together to support others”.
Sue says her love of dance spans highland, tap and line dancing, and she finds it rewarding to watch others develop their skills and confidence.
“Watching people enjoy these achievements - this is my reward as a dance teacher of many years.”
The Lincoln LineUp was organised and hosted by Māpua's Chris and Renay Brocklesby, who also dance with Sioux Line Dance NZ.