Line Dancing Unites Queensland Communities, Promotes Health and Connection

Under the vibrant glow of Brisbane's country music venues, Chelsea Gillum leads enthusiastic crowds through lively line dancing sessions.

Her polished cowgirl boots set the rhythm on stage—a stark contrast to four years prior when she was unfamiliar with the dance form.

A serendipitous encounter transformed line dancing into a source of solace during a period of profound personal loss.

"I lost my mum in 2021, and her best friend took me to the Gympie Muster the next year," Ms. Gillum shared.

"I accidentally stumbled upon the line-dancing sessions and instantly fell in love with it."

Ms. Gillum is among many Queenslanders embracing line dancing for its blend of movement and community connection.

Social media has played a pivotal role in propelling the dance's popularity beyond rural areas.

"It's always been popular but somewhat in the shadows," she noted.

"Now, generations who've danced for decades are connecting with younger people who've discovered it online."

In Rockhampton, the Great Western Hotel—traditionally a bull-riding hub—transforms fortnightly into a bustling line dancing venue.

Over 300 participants gather to showcase their newly acquired moves, a significant increase from the modest gatherings two years ago.

Organizers report that attendance has nearly tripled, reflecting the dance's growing appeal.

Ms. Gillum emphasizes the inclusive nature of the line-dancing community.

"It's brought friendships into my life I didn't know I needed, spanning different ages and backgrounds," she said.

"You don't need a partner; everyone's doing the same thing, so even if you come alone, you're part of something bigger."

Inspired by her experiences in Nashville, USA, Ms. Gillum established her own line dancing business.

"I started at one of Brisbane's country bars for free for seven months because I wanted to show them line dancing was a thing," she explained.

Research underscores the multifaceted benefits of line dancing.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that dance activities like line dancing can reduce the risk of dementia by 76%, highlighting its cognitive benefits.

Additionally, a systematic review in BMC Public Health noted that dance interventions improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, and balance.

For a group of Rockhampton mothers, line dancing became a New Year's resolution to try something new.

"We discovered that we could dance, laugh, and have fun together here; it's very relaxed," said Bec Faria.

"They say when your age goes up, your care factor goes down."

Line dancing instructor at the Great Western, Emily Holloway, highlighted the event's accessibility.

"It's really great to see so many people coming together and making friends," she said.

"Instructor Mahalia Hayman and I didn't know each other before we started line dancing, and we've become really good friends since."

"It takes people a little bit to get on the dance floor, and once they're there, you can see the giant smiles on their faces; they're having a ball."

Line dancing's resurgence in Queensland underscores its role in fostering community ties and promoting physical and mental well-being.

As more individuals step onto the dance floor, they find not just rhythm but also connection and joy.