Inverell residents, Chris Watchirs, Sharon Staader, Kerry White, Emi Campbell, Clint McSpedden and Gerry Taviera are learning how to dance as part of Stars of Inverell, a dance gala taking place on June 22.
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Held at the Inverell RSM Club, Stars of Inverell raises money for Cancer Council NSW.
Stars of Inverell challenges local celebrities and community leaders to step out of their comfort zones, learn a dance routine, and perform it live in front of an audience of more than 200 people, all while raising funds for a cancer free future.
The night will see all Stars perform a dance routine and compete for the three awards that are up for grabs: Judges' Choice, People's Choice and Highest Fundraiser.
Kerry White said he was motivated to participate in Stars of Inverell after his own battle with prostate cancer he is passionate about raising funds for research to reduce the impact of cancer and better outcomes to all effected by this insidious disease.
"In 2009 I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, I studied and learnt a lot about Prostate Cancer, later that year I had my Prostate removed. In 2010 a colleague who had the same operation contacted me in regards to forming a Prostate Cancer Support Group because there was no information in Inverell for men diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, and so the Prostate Cancer Support Group was formed," Mr White said.
"Having several members of my family having had and still dealing with cancer, including Mucosal Melanoma, I am very supportive of Cancer Council NSW by raising funds for research to reduce the impact of cancer and better outcomes to all effected by this insidious disease."
Sarah Mayo-McCowen, Community Fundraising Coordinator at Cancer Council's Tamworth office said that Stars of Inverell offers a unique platform for well-known locals to do something completely out of their comfort zone and raise funds to support those in their local communities affected by cancer.
"The Stars are already out in the community fundraising and receiving amazing support. We hope local residents will continue to get behind them and Cancer Council by donating and attending on the night," Mrs Mayo-McCowen said.
Kelvin Brown, Tribal Elder Anaiwan People's of the Gamilaraay Nation is helping to spread the word about the Stars event and helping raise awareness and funds by colouring his hair and moustache Pink for the months leading up to the event.
"Coming together as a community, we have a much better chance of beating this beast [cancer]. I have lost many family members to this disease and if I can do anything to help raise awareness and funds to support research the support programs Cancer Council offer our community ill do it," Uncle Kelvin said.
There is still room for two more 'Stars' to join the fun.
"it's a great challenge to support the community; three minutes on stage dancing is a breeze compared to those fighting a cancer diagnosis"
If anyone in the community is keen to be involved please reach out to Sarah at Cancer Council Tamworth 6763 0914.
Funds raised by Stars of Inverell will support Cancer Council's life-saving cancer research, prevention, advocacy and local support programs for people affected by cancer.
To support a Star and raise funds for a cancer free future, visit https://stars.cancercouncil.com.au/event/stars-of-inverell/home. Tickets for the gala night on sale soon.
