Keeping alive on the Bellarine

A BELLARINE rock-and-roll dance group is hoping to attract a new wave of dancers when weekly classes return next month.

What began as a post-lockdown project has grown into a social hub for many Bellarine residents, with the Bellarine Peninsula Rockers combining dancing, exercise and friendship.

Founder and instructor Kevin Borg started the classes in May 2022 after spending much of the Covid-19 pandemic unable to dance.

“During Covid, I was on my own and not dancing, so I thought I’d start a dance school on the Bellarine to keep busy,” he said.

The idea quickly gained traction, attracting about 30 regular dancers within seven months.

“I wanted to build something for the local community, not just run a class,” Borg said.

The classes grew in popularity quickly, but have been on a recent hiatus. Photo: Bellarine Peninsula Rockers.

“At our peak, we had 40 to 45 people every week, dancing for two hours and having a great time.”

Borg said accessible social activities played an important role on the Bellarine, where many residents were retired.

“A lot of people on the Bellarine are retirees, so local, accessible activities really matter,” he said.

“You get three or four hours of dancing, exercise and socialising.

“It makes you happy.”

Beyond fitness and fun, the classes have also helped participants form new friendships and connections.

The classes are an opportunity to socialise and exercise in a friendly environment of like-minded individuals. Photo: Bellarine Peninsula Rockers.

“A lot of people come to dancing after a breakup or separation,” Borg said. “It’s a way to meet people in a safe, friendly environment.”

Attendance can fluctuate during quieter periods, particularly in winter, and ongoing community support was needed to keep the classes running.

Borg said the music remains a major drawcard for many dancers, with rock-and-roll favourites from the 1950s and 60s still resonating with the group’s core audience.

“We grew up with Elvis, Buddy Holly and The Beatles,” he said. “That music still means something to us.”

Classes also include a social element, with participants encouraged to stay for coffee and social dancing afterwards.

The classes are open to anyone over the age of 18, and will run every Tuesday from 6.30pm starting 7 July at the Indented Head Community Hall.