Home » Line dancing for longevity in Goodna

Line dancing for longevity in Goodna

Guy Hazlewood    October 31, 2024    2 min read   

Goodna resident Ethel Braun, recently celebrated her 100th birthday with her line-dancing friends who have been spending time together every Friday morning.

line dancing
The Goodna line dancers get together every Friday morning. Source: Guy Hazlewood

At the vibrant age of 80, Ethel joined the line dancing group, that runs out of the Goodna Neighbourhood House Hall and has been an active participant ever since.

“I really enjoy coming here, along with my daughter and dancing,” Ethel said.

“Spending time with all my friends is fantastic as well.”

The group, which started over a decade ago, aims to blend exercise with social interaction—though many members admit that socialising often takes precedence.

“It is all about moving the body and focusing on coordination,” said Goodna Neighbourhood House line dancers leader Gloria McDonald.

“Although, I think they do more socialising than exercising.”

The line-dancing group has grown into a community fixture, attracting participants from all over Greater Springfield. 

The sessions are intentionally informal; there are no structured lessons—participants simply follow the music, with Gloria leading the pack.

“I chuck the music on, and everyone just follows along,” Gloria said.

“It’s all just a bit of fun.”

In addition to their regular Friday morning routines, the group takes part in a big community line dance for those with disabilities.

“Every second Friday, the hall is jam-packed with everyone dancing and having a really good time,” Gloria said.

For many, including Ethel, the group offers more than just exercise—it fosters friendships and keeps the mind sharp.

line dancing
Ethel (bottom centre) continues to line dance at 100 years of age. Source: Guy Hazlewood

As the music plays and feet shuffle in rhythm, the group exemplifies the power of community and movement—proving that age is no barrier to joy.

For those interested in joining in on the fun, the line dancers start at 9am every Friday at 33 Queen Street, Goodna.

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Guy Hazlewood