The event is a special fundraising initiative for Cancer Council NSW and is returning to Bathurst after great success in 2015.

Community relations co-ordinator Bree Kelly is pleased to announce that 10 willing participants have been found to help reach a big fundraising target.

“The year we have 10 great stars being put through their paces with local instructors to compete in a fun night of dancing and entertainment, while we hope to raise $35,000,” she said.

“The stars are already out in the community fundraising and we hope local residents will get behind them and Cancer Council NSW by supporting and attending on the night.” 

Among those strapping on their dancing shoes will be local real estate agent Mitchell Bestwick.

A friend of his who was involved with the event last year took the liberty of nominating him for the competition, believing he could have what it takes to do well.

Mr Bestwick, however, isn’t so confident with his footwork since he started to learn ballet.

“Dancing isn’t one of my strengths and after my first few lessons it is pretty evident that is the case,” he joked. 

“There is a reason why many guys don’t do ballet, so I’d say the difficulty is at a 10.” 

The real estate agent has set himself a personal goal of $2500 to raise and hopes to give it a little boost through his business.

“For every market appraisal that One Agency Bestwick Real Estate does, which is free of charge to the owner, we will donate $50 to the Cancer Council on behalf of the owner,” Mr Bestwick explained. 

Also attempting to raise $2500 is Bathurst St Pat’s rugby league hooker Hudson White. 

His club felt he would be able to attract some support through Dance for Cancer and Mr White, of course, couldn’t say no to helping out such a worthy charity. 

Dancing has put him well out of his comfort zone, but Mr White is pushing on  towards the big night.

“Obviously, it is a bit different [to football], but it is a good laugh,” he said. “I’m fairly nervous, but it is for a good cause.” 

The event will get underway at Bathurst Panthers on Saturday, May 7. Tickets are available at  www.123tix.com.au/events/ 254/stars-of-bathurst-dance-for-cancer for $60 per person for a table of eight.

Blake Lawson (Kelso High School)

James Knight (Bathurst Panthers)

Chad Ashton (CSU Mitchell rugby league)

Hudson White (St Pat’s rugby league)

Ian North (Deputy mayor of Bathurst)

Jess Jennings (Bathurst councillor)

Kayana Theobald (Central West Nest Blog)

Mitchell Bestwick (One Agency Bestwick Real Estate)

Stephen Buckley (Wheeler Cycles)

Stacey Whittaker (Bathurst Real Estate/ Bathurst Business Chamber president)