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I have tapped out a few lines (phew!) to share my Cloudland memories … CLOUDLAND The Gordon Clan have a long association with Cloudland Ballroom. Around 1947, my Mother, as a single woman in her early 20’s, visited there of a Saturday night with a group of friends and her…

Twas 1956 and the world was looking to Australia staging the Olympics for the first time. Postwar, travel, the introduction of the latest "fad" being television, communication and all made for a very exciting time of promise... Enter couples from all over Australia, practise, dedication and determination. Olympic year Australasian…

You don't have to spend too long speaking with Noel to realise you are in the presence of quiet confidence, the kind that comes from knowing your achievements and not having to flaunt them in any way. A gentleman who is amiable, has a ready sense of humor and offers…

Avoid too many variations. The noted English ballroom professional, Henry Jacques, gave the following useful hints to dance competitors whilst in Australia. Now that competitions are in full swing, this expert advice is timely. All competitor, amateur or professionals should Include at least 75 per cent of the basic figures in all dances. states Mr. Jacques.…

In Brisbane today, the general public's of the opinion that modern ballroom dancing is of the same complicated "jazzy" steps performed ten years ago.  There are still many people who term modern ballroom dancing "Jazz." This Is an erroneous impression, gained by people who do not understand the simplicity and…

The Trocadero which opened in 1923 was arguably the most popular dance venue in Qld for around 25 years. With all the top champions competing at this venue and on all non-regular dance nights, the hall was booked out for months in advance for Balls and other functions. Lovingly known as…

The Hibernian Hall, located at Woolloongabba, Brisbane QLD Featured Gordon Reids' Dansonians Band with Aub Panton as M.C. The hall had not been used as a dance hall for many years so when Gordon put forth a proposal to Aub Panton to start a Saturday night dance, he agreed. The…

Aubrey Panton, known as Aub was a QLD based Dance Teacher who like so many others dedicated his life to dance. Born in 1909 Aub was a community-minded person that enjoyed helping in so many ways: 1924 Aubrey became a Boy Scout Leader and Later (1955) a District Commissioner 1927…

Everything old is new again. While the same comments can be heard at dances today as noted in 1943, the sentiment still reflects the differences that we as the dance community collective enjoy. Some folks love the latest, new, keep learning, always changing. Some folks are content knowing their favourite…

15 real things about dancing: 1. Dance is hard. No dancer has excelled in the ring based on talent. Dancers are top artists and athletes and in a world that appreciates extreme sports talent alone can't bring you much success. Athletes need hard work and perseverance to reach and maintain…