IN 1992, Doris Somerville and her late husband Gwilym Thomas were approached by friends to give lessons in New Vogue and Modern Sequence dancing.
Later the couple was asked to host a weekly dance for those who wished to participate in that particular style of dance.
Never afraid of a challenge, the two agreed and with the help of friends, held the first lessons in the CWA Hall in Sutton Street and the first dance in August 1992 with one dance a week after that.
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READ NOWThe club soon outgrew the CWA Hall and shifted to Mandurah Senior Citizens Centre in April 1993.
The first Party Dance, one of many over the years, was on June 7 1993 and as it was Foundation Day, the theme was period costume.
An application to the Corporate Affairs Office re incorporation came to fruition in October 1993 and the first annual general meeting of the Mandurah Ballroom Dance Club was held in November.
Doris Somerville was elected president/co-ordinator, a position she still holds.
Mr Thomas died in 1995 but left behind a legacy; not only a well-organised club but many happy memories.
After many years at Mandurah Senior Citizens Centre, the club moved to Dudley Park Bowling Club for a short stay and then to the Masonic Hall at Barragup where it hosts a weekly dance.
Last month, the club celebrated with a 25th anniversary dance when Ms Somerville paid tribute to past and present committee members.
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