‘Amazing’: Total Recreation fundraiser Dancing with the Celebrities returns for 18th year

Out of their comfort zone and having a ball, dozens of dancers with a disability will partner with Darwin celebrities to twist, step and spin in a competition raising money for a cause.

Striking a pose at rehearsals for the 2024 Dancing with the Celebrities ball, the annual fundraiser for Total Recreation NT. Picture: Fia Walsh.

Dozens of dancers with a disability will join Darwin celebrities to twist, step and spin in a competition raising money for a cause.

Dancing with the Celebrities returns for its 18th year on October 26 at Mindil Beach Casino.

Performing a charmaine and a tango, dancers with a disability will be paired with local politicians, radio hosts, and service provider stars in hopes of being crowned this year’s winner.

The competition and gala event is the major annual fundraiser for Total Recreation, a disability support organisation helping members get involved in the local community.

After buying a new van in 2023, this year the charity is planning to upgrade its recreation room.

Alex McInnes at rehearsals for the 2024 Dancing with the Celebrities ball, the annual fundraiser for Total Recreation NT. Picture: Fia Walsh.

Dancer Alex McInnes is competing for the eighth time after taking home the crown in 2017.

“I love this time of year, every year, especially learning different new dances to take to weddings and stuff like that,” Mr McInnes said.

“I do think the (Total Recreation) rec room could use an upgrade, I do photography and a lot of other programs in there, but it’s a bit full at the moment with the amount of members that they have.”

Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro and her partner Nathan at rehearsals for the 2024 Dancing with the Celebrities ball, the annual fundraiser for Total Recreation NT. Picture: Fia Walsh.

One of the celebrity dancers, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro, said she was inspired to return after running into her dance partner Nathan earlier this year.

“I’m really excited to be part of it, it pushes you out of your comfort zone, and it’s an amazing opportunity – everyone just had a lot of fun,” she said.

“I’m am certainly no dancer so it’s a huge challenge, and Nathan’s showing me a thing or two.”

Organiser Ramona Bartlett said the event was “about ability”

“It showcases all the amazing things our members can do,” she said.

“And it wouldn’t be possible without all the incredible community support – so many people that put in their time and businesses that support it.”