Dancing With the Stars

Busy mum and businesswoman Leanne Shelton has the Cha Cha on her mind as she washes the dishes or whisks around her Kellyville home these days. dancing

The clock is ticking down to when the 36-year-old takes to the floor in The Stars of Western Sydney gala night on Saturday, March 26th to raise money for the Cancer Council.

While her daughters, Gabrielle, 8 and 5-year-old Indiana won’t be part of the family cheer squad at the gala night they have been giving their mum helpful advice and helping with her aim to raise $5000.

For Leanne, raising money for cancer is a cause close to her heart as her father, Garry Belinfante is currently undergoing treatment.

“Dad has been battling cancer on and off for five years. While he has remained high-spirited as possible for the family, he’s experienced many ups and downs – including unexpected allergic reactions to treatments that sometimes put his life on the line,” she said. “I’m hoping the money I raise for The Cancer Council goes towards research to uncover why these things occurred and stop them from taking place in the future. I’d also love for us to keep moving towards a cure.”

She says taking part in The Stars of Western Sydney is a perfect fundraising opportunity as she and her dad have a shared love for dancing.

Although Leanne started dancing when she was two in Physical Culture classes she is not used to dancing with a partner.

She’s had a handful of dancing lessons with Matthew Murphy from Move With Me in Castle Hill and practices on her own at home.

Leanne is one of 11 community leaders across the Hills, Blacktown and Parramatta districts, who have been paired with a dancer teacher to learn a dance routine in just 8-12 weeks for Stars of Western Sydney.

Andy Abey from CHRG will also be taking part in the event and is dancing in memory of best friend Rosa who lost her battle with cancer 5 years ago.

The Hills mum said: “I’m completely out of my comfort zone and trying to remember to dance after 30 years. It’s so much fun and for the most wonderful of causes. “

She is dancing a contemporary dance with teacher Rachel Lawrence who owns Powerhouse Dance Factory.

The “Stars” will all perform their routine in front of a panel of judges and the audience during an evening of entertainment, laughter, and fundraising.

Cancer Council NSW Community Relations Coordinator, Danielle Sammut, says “The demand for our support services has increased by 20 per cent during COVID, with cancer patients needing our support more than ever before.“

To support Leanne’s fundraising efforts, visit stars.cancercouncil.com.au/fundraisers/ leanneshelton/stars-of-western-sydney. To find out more about the event which is being held at Wenty Leagues Club or to buy tickets ($135 for 3-course meal, drink on arrival and entertainment) visit stars.cancercouncil.com. au/event/stars-of-western-sydney/home