About Our Team
Our experienced dance coachesOur coaches are experienced social and competitive Ballroom Dancers who have a passion for what they do and want to share that passion with you in our dance classes. They have been trained by some of the countrys best coaches and have many years experience in taking dance classes for all abilities.
Our Coaches and Assistant Coaches all have Covid vaccinations, a current Police and Working with Children Clearance. In accordance with the NDIS Worker Screening transition rules many of our coaches also have their NDIS Worker Screener.
Darryl Davenport OAM
Owner and Dance Coach
Darryl began Ballroom Dancing at the age of six and has been teaching for over 30 years. With a wealth of experience across both group and private settings, Darryl has taught dancers from absolute beginners to advanced competitors. He is a multiple State, Australian, and New Zealand Professional DanceSport Champion and has coached numerous dancers to State and Australian Championship titles.
In 2001, Darryl played a pivotal role in establishing OUTdance, Perth’s only same-sex, not-for-profit Ballroom Dancing class and been made a life member. Since 2014, he has also coached the Western Australian Masters Formation Team and holds life membership with the team.
In 2020, Darryl founded Para and Ability Dance WA, a not-for-profit association created to support dancers living with disability. Through this initiative, he has helped broaden access to dance for people of all abilities, championing inclusion and representation in the Ballroom and DanceSport communities.
Darryl’s contributions have been formally recognised with several honours. In 2019, he received the Curtin University Alumni Community Service Award, followed by the City of South Perth Australia Day Community Citizen of the Year Award in 2021 for his dedicated service to the dance community. That same year, he was also invited to serve as an Australia Day Ambassador. In 2025 Darryl received an Order of Australia medal for his services to Dance Sports.
Chris Wood
Dance Coach
Chris began dancing at the age of 18, attending a social dance class with his brother. What began as a casual interest quickly became a lifelong passion. By 1984, he was competing in DanceSport and rapidly advanced through the Ballroom and Latin ranks. A career highlight came when he placed third in Ballroom at the New Zealand National Championships, competing against over 80 couples. He later went on to win a New Zealand National title in New Vogue in 1990.
In 2005, Chris turned professional and began teaching full-time at Dance Club Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. During his time there, he gained his Associate qualifications in both Ballroom and New Vogue. His dedication to the craft and commitment to personal development have made him a valued teacher and mentor.
Chris is known for his caring and supportive teaching style, always tailoring his approach to the pace and ability of each individual student. A lover of technique, he places a strong emphasis on correct footwork and quality of movement. His dance practice is complemented by his daily commitment to yoga, which supports his belief in the importance of good alignment to protect the joints and overall physical well-being.
Chris is passionate about sharing the joy of dance and takes particular pride in helping people achieve what they once thought was impossible. Whether teaching a beginner taking their first steps on the dance floor or guiding a competitor through the finer points of technique, Chris brings patience, encouragement, and a deep love for dance to every lesson.
Ian Powell
Dance Coach
Ian’s journey in dance began at the age of seven, inspired by the joyful atmosphere and lively music at weddings and social gatherings. His first introduction to ballroom dancing came through the waltz, danced to Billy Ternent’s Souvenirs D’Italie. That first class sparked a lifelong passion for dance. By the age of twelve, Ian was volunteering to assist in children’s classes at the Shirley Bickley School of Dancing in Fremantle, Western Australia. His early enthusiasm quickly expanded into supporting adult and senior classes, and from the outset, Ian knew that teaching was his true calling—a perfect combination of music, dance, and social connection.
Driven by a desire to share his love of dance with others, Ian also recognised the importance of developing strong technical foundations. Six months before his eighteenth birthday, following success in both practical exams and competitions, Ian was invited to turn professional. He embraced the opportunity and committed himself to the art of dance teaching with seriousness and heart.
Ian’s career is rich with notable achievements. He was a member of the Western Australian Junior Formation Team that won the Australian Championships in Melbourne in 1983 and later part of the Adult Bi-Centennial Formation Team Championship victory in Brisbane in 1988. In 1999, he received the Dance Masters International Service Award, and in 2020 was honoured for over forty years of continuous service with the Shirley Bickley School of Dancing.
Ian is a certified teacher and adjudicator in Modern Ballroom, Latin American, Australian New Vogue, and English Old Time styles. He holds Fellowship level in the Latin American Branch with Dance Masters International Association Inc., where he also serves as an examiner. He is a registered DanceSport adjudicator and instructor across Standard, Latin American, and New Vogue disciplines.
He teaches by the motto “We live to dance today, not tomorrow,” ensuring students leave each lesson with confidence, clarity, and the ability to dance independently. His calm, structured approach breaks down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps—perfect for those who consider themselves to have “two left feet.”
Ian’s favourite aspect of teaching with Ballroom Fit is the integration of fitness into dance, building not just ability but wellbeing and community. Outside of dance, Ian is also a qualified primary school teacher and lecturer with a background in supporting learners with barriers to education. His diverse experience enriches his teaching, making him a skilled and empathetic educator in every setting.
Dance Coach
Jenny’s journey into the world of dance is both inspirational and heartwarming. As a pre-schooler, she first stepped into the Embassy Ballroom, guided by her older sister. However, her initial foray into dance did not spark the joy that would later define her relationship with the art form. At nine, Jenny decided to revisit the Embassy Ballroom, accompanied by friends and discovered a newfound love for dancing.
Her early formal training began with Del Kidd, under whom she earned her first bronze medal. However, it was under the guidance of Marita and Keith Withers that Jenny’s passion and skills truly began to flourish. She quickly became a vital part of the classes, often assisting Keith by partnering with new students and demonstrating techniques. By eleven, Jenny had already started competing, showcasing her burgeoning talent and dedication to the craft.
When Keith and Marita Withers returned to England, Jenny found new mentors in Steve and Diane Clarke. Under their mentorship, she delved deeper into the teaching world, notably when they established their studio in Cannington. This period marked a significant development in her career as she transitioned from student to teacher, sharing her love and knowledge of dance with others.
Jenny’s dancing journey afforded her numerous travel opportunities, the pinnacle of which was being part of the first Australian Formation team to compete at the prestigious Winter Gardens in Blackpool, England. Competing both in the team and as a couple, Jenny also had the honour of dancing at the Albert Hall in London during the mid-70s. Her competitive achievements include reaching the top 10 in A Grade Latin in Australia, a testament to her skill and dedication. She has achieved all her technical awards, including the Star awards in Latin and Standard, and she has passed Grade 2 in Latin American Theory.
One of Jenny’s favourite aspects of being part of Ballroom Fit is the inclusiveness of the environment. She was drawn to Ballroom Fit after witnessing a demonstration of Para Dancers and Abilities Dancers, which resonated deeply with her desire to contribute meaningfully. The ideology that dance is for everyone, regardless of age or ability, struck a chord with her. Now, Jenny teaches and assists in various classes, including Visibility and Ballroom Fit classes, practice sessions with Para Dancers, and individual lessons for Abilities dancers. Her teaching style is characterised by a fun and relaxed approach, emphasising movement to music, learning steps, and, most importantly, having fun.
Despite taking long breaks from dancing throughout her life, Jenny has always identified as a dancer. Today, she continues to share her passion with others, although she dreams of one day convincing her husband to join her on the dance floor, making her world perfect.
James Bardill
Dance Coach
James first discovered his passion for Ballroom Dancing at the age of six while living in Broome, Western Australia. From his very first class, he was captivated by the elegance, rhythm, and joy of the ballroom, setting him on a path that continues to inspire his dancing today.
In 2021, James began teaching at DancePower, where he assisted with both adult and children’s classes. His natural enthusiasm and ability to connect with students of all ages quickly made him a valued part of the teaching team.
As a competitive dancer, James has already achieved notable success. A highlight of his early career was placing second in the Junior Open New Vogue and becoming the Closed Australian Champion. More recently, he won both the Under 21 B Grade Ballroom and B Grade New Vogue titles at the 2023 Australian Championships and at the 2024 championship was the runners up in the Under 21 Open Ballroom and New Vogue, accomplishment he holds especially close.
Outside the dance world, James is also an avid AFL fan and plays for his local club. In 2022, he was recognised for his performance and leadership on the field, receiving his team’s Best and Fairest award.
James brings energy, patience, and positivity to every class. He loves teaching at Ballroom Fit, where he finds the environment friendly, supportive, and full of fun. What motivates him most is seeing the progress his students make each week and knowing he is playing a part in their journey.
Whether in the studio or on the competition floor, James continues to pursue excellence in all aspects of his dancing and teaching, and takes great pride in sharing his passion for Ballroom Dancing with the next generation.
Alister Herrmann
Dance Coach
Alister’s journey into the world of ballroom dancing began at the age of five, when his family guided him to Supadance in Bunbury—the same studio where they had learnt their wedding dance. It was in a Saturday morning children’s class that his passion for dance was first ignited. Though the memories of those early classes are now distant, the music and joy of that time remain vivid and treasured.
After many years of private lessons in Bunbury, Alister began teaching in the very class where his own dance journey began. As his experience and confidence grew, he progressed to assisting with adult beginner classes and eventually took on his own adult group lessons. Upon relocating to Perth, he began teaching private lessons—a role he finds both rewarding and deeply fulfilling.
Teaching is more than a profession for Alister; it is a means of expressing his love for DanceSport and constantly evolving as both a coach and dancer. His competitive background is extensive, having competed through the Juvenile and Junior divisions and most recently completing his final year in Under 21. He was Western Australia’s top-ranked competitor three times—once as a Juvenile and twice in the Under 21 category.
Alister’s final year in Under 21 was a personal highlight, earning the DanceSport Achievement Award and representing Western Australia on the state team in both Modern and New Vogue. At the 2023 Australian Championships in Melbourne, he achieved 4th place in Under 21 Open Standard and 3rd in Under 21 Open New Vogue, proudly standing among the country’s top young competitors.
Alister holds a Level 1 DanceSport Coach accreditation in Standard, underscoring his commitment to excellence and knowledge-sharing in the dance community.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging) at Curtin University, Alister balances his academic pursuits with his love of dance, fitness, and outdoor activities. Grounded by his country upbringing, he enjoys camping, four-wheel driving, and staying active.
Ballroom Fit has played a significant role in Alister’s transition to Perth, offering a sense of belonging and opportunity. It is a connection he holds with gratitude and pride.
Caesar Chong
Dance Coach
Caesar began his teaching career in 2001 and brings a wealth of experience as a DanceSport competitor at state, national, and international levels. He remains actively involved in competition, currently dancing in the Teacher/Student category with his students.
His extensive training spans a diverse range of styles, including Ballroom, New Vogue, Latin American, Ballet, Contemporary, Freestyle Dancing, and Gymnastics. Caesar holds a Latin DanceSport Coaching accreditation and is presently working towards completing his Ballroom Coaching accreditation.
Caesar is passionate about the connection between body movement, body form, and the artistry of dance. His teaching style is grounded in this philosophy, drawing on his technical and performance background to adapt his instruction across Para Dance, Ability Dance, and exercise-based dance classes. He is known for his commitment to helping dancers of all abilities express themselves through movement with confidence and creativity.
Caesar is a registered Professional Competitor and Coach with DanceSport Australia. He has also completed a range of specialist training programmes, including the Special Olympics course Improving Sport for People with an Intellectual Disability, the International Paralympic Committee’s Introduction to Paralympics, and the Australian Institute of Sport’s Community Coaching General Principles.
Through his broad skillset and dedication, Caesar continues to make a significant contribution to inclusive dance, enriching the lives of his students and helping them unlock their potential through the joy of dance.
Jannette Barrett
Dance Coach
Jannette began her dance journey at the age of seventeen. Within just a few months of learning to dance, she was competing in Sydney and assisting teachers at social dances with the Cay School. Her love of dance quickly became a central part of her life.
After relocating to Perth in 1984, Jannette began running informal dance classes for friends. Her natural teaching ability and passion for sharing dance soon earned her a strong reputation, and demand for her instruction grew. She went on to teach beginners at OUTdance for several years, supporting inclusive social dancing within the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2003, she formalised her credentials by gaining her Dance Teachers Accreditation.
As a competitor, Jannette has many memorable highlights. She was a finalist in both Latin and Ballroom at the Pan Pacific Championships in Brisbane and enjoyed repeated success at competitions across Sydney. A personal favourite moment was winning a Ballroom trophy at a competition in Wollongong, New South Wales—one that remains a cherished memory.
Jannette’s interests extend beyond the dance floor. She enjoys public speaking, meditation, and continues to find new ways to grow personally and creatively.
Kaley Devine
Dance Coach
Kaley began her dance journey at around four years of age, learning to dance at Star Ballroom, which at the time was tucked behind the Allied Glass warehouse in Rockingham. One of her strongest memories from that time was the feeling of disappearing into the music—a powerful experience that sparked a deep and lasting love of dance. While she had a love-hate relationship with petticoats and taffeta dresses, it was the community at Star Ballroom that truly shaped her early years.
Although Kaley stepped away from dance before completing her Star medals, the sense of belonging and joy she experienced eventually drew her back. That return came through Ballroom Fit, which she had followed with interest for some time due to her work in the disability sector. Impressed by the organisation’s values and inclusive approach, Kaley initially reached out to volunteer with the vision-impaired dance class. Since then, her role has grown significantly, and she now plays an active part in both teaching and supporting the broader team. Kaley is also a proud member of the Western Australian Masters Formation Team.
Kaley brings a wealth of experience to Ballroom Fit—not only through her years of dancing, but also through her professional background. She holds a Diploma in Auslan and has worked extensively with people living with Deafblindness, Autism, and Down syndrome. Her passion for inclusion is deeply personal, shaped by her own lived experience with disability and the inspiring people in her life who have shown her how to live with purpose and joy.
Kaley is a strong advocate for people with disabilities and takes immense pride in the progress she sees in her students. Whether it’s improved confidence, posture, balance or simply the joy of participating, she believes the greatest reward is the shared sense of support, achievement and laughter that fills every class. For Kaley, every lesson is a chance to learn from her students and celebrate the power of community through dance.
Eleonora De Pieri Tentori
Dance Coach
Eleonora is a passionate and dedicated member of the Western Australian Masters Formation Team and is a registered DanceSport competitor. Her dance journey has seen her explore a variety of styles, including Modern, Latin and New Vogue, and she brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to every class she teaches or participates in.
A firm believer that dancing is for everyone—even those who feel they have “two left feet”—Eleonora champions the physical, mental and emotional benefits of dance. She sees dancing as an excellent way to improve fitness, lose weight, engage the mind, and build coordination and memory, all within a welcoming and supportive environment.
In addition to her extensive experience on the dance floor, Eleonora has completed a number of industry-recognised qualifications that enhance her inclusive coaching practice. These include the International Paralympic Committee’s Introduction to Paralympics, the Australian Institute of Sport’s Community Coaching General Principles, and Special Olympics Australia’s Improving Sport for People with an Intellectual Disability.
Eleonora’s commitment to making dance accessible for all was formally recognised in 2018 when she received the Department of Communities Volunteer of the Year Award for her outstanding contribution to Ballroom Fit programs.
With her inclusive attitude and dedication to creating a welcoming space for dancers of all abilities, Eleonora continues to be a valued and inspiring member of the Ballroom Fit team.
Vicki Barden (Summer)
Dance Coach
Vicki’s journey into dance began at the age of six, when she first attended children’s social dance and medal classes. From an early stage, her passion for dance was clear, and it soon became evident that teaching was her true vocation. She embarked on her teaching career in 1990 at Simmons Dance Studio, setting the foundation for a lifelong dedication to dance education.
Between 2003 and 2013, Vicki realised her dream of owning a full-time dance studio in Balcatta. This endeavour reflected her unwavering commitment to dance, providing her with the platform to share her extensive knowledge and passion with many students over the years.
Her competitive dance career has spanned multiple levels, from Juvenile through to Professional categories. Vicki has represented Australia at prestigious international competitions in the UK, Germany and Norway. She has been an Australian finalist and is a multiple winner at the Western Australian Open Championships.
Vicki holds a Licentiate/Members degree with The Australian Dancing Society in Ballroom, Latin and New Vogue. Since 1991, she has been a respected member and examiner with the Australian Dancing Society. She is also an accredited coach and adjudicator across all three styles with DanceSport Australia.
While qualified in Ballroom, Latin and New Vogue, Vicki specialises in New Vogue. Her teaching philosophy emphasises technique and body movement, ensuring her students develop a high level of dance proficiency.
At Ballroom Fit, Vicki’s expertise is invaluable. She uniquely focuses on mechanical movement to enhance balance, coordination and overall physical movement. Vicki firmly believes that improving these elements through dance can positively impact her students’ daily lives. Her teaching is engaging and enjoyable, with a clear goal of enhancing long-term quality of life.
Vicki’s dedication to dance transcends technique alone; it is also about sharing her profound love for dance and commitment to the well-being of her students. Her care and professionalism make her an essential part of the Ballroom Fit community.
Simon Mills
Dance Coach
Simon began his Ballroom Dancing journey at the age of eleven. Initially, he attended lessons simply to support his twin brother, balancing dance practice with football training. However, after a few months, Simon became captivated by the music and the art of dance, and he has never looked back since. For Simon, Ballroom Dancing represents the perfect blend of physical exercise, artistic expression, competition, music, and community.
Simon’s competitive achievements are notable. In 2022, he became the Oceania National Amateur Open Champion in both Ballroom and New Vogue. That same year, he secured Tasmanian National titles in New Vogue and Ballroom and was a finalist or placed second at prestigious competitions including the Australian DanceSport Championship, Night of Stars National Championships, and the WA Open. He has previously held State Champion titles and won every major competition in Western Australia. Simon and hgis wife have twice won the Austrslian DanceSport Championship Adult Open New Vogue in 2023 and 2024, a major milestone for any dancer.
As a coach, Simon has guided numerous Australian and State Champions across a wide range of categories including Vision Impaired, All Abilities, Para Dance, Recreational, and Amateur divisions. His coaching spans all age groups: Junior, Youth, Adult, and Masters.
Simon’s teaching approach is founded on systems theory, starting with core principles that underpin the fundamentals of Ballroom Dancing. From there, he builds on the structure, mechanics, musicality, and artistic expression unique to the dance. His coaching style is warm, friendly, and adaptable, shaped to meet the individual needs of his students. Simon is proud to pass on knowledge gained from his mentors and coaches, including Darryl Davenport, Steven and Rachelle Grinbergs, and Matt Rooke. His aim is to nurture a love of dance in his students, helping them develop and become active members of the dance community.
Simon holds a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours from Curtin University and has completed postgraduate studies in Biostatistics at the University of Melbourne. Beyond dance, he values the relationships formed through the Ballroom Fit community and takes great satisfaction in seeing students grow in confidence, skill, and camaraderie.
Dianne Van Der Poel
Dance Coach
Dianne’s relationship with ballroom dancing began in her childhood around the age of nine. Although she enjoyed it, a move away from the city meant she couldn’t continue at the time. Her passion was reignited at 21 when a friend started lessons, which led to her meeting Martin, now her husband. Together, Dianne and Martin competed for many years, achieving notable success including winning the Masters II Open Ballroom title at the WA Open. Their competitive highlights include reaching the semi-final in a Masters Open 8-dance event in Sydney and placing in a B-grade Ballroom competition in Canberra. Since 2014, they have been proud members of the WA Masters Formation Team. For many years, the family’s dance journey extended to their sons, creating busy but rewarding times.
Although teaching has always interested Dianne, she only recently found the opportunity to pursue it. For the past 15 months, she has been generously assisting with Ballroom Fit’s All Ability classes, an experience she cherishes deeply. Her teaching philosophy focuses on ensuring students enjoy their lessons, avoiding overwhelming them with too many corrections at once. What she values most about teaching at Ballroom Fit is the chance to work alongside me and engage with the all-abilities groups.
Beyond the dance floor, Dianne is a passionate gamer, with a particular fondness for RPGs, board games, and computer games.
Martin Van Der Poel
Dance Partner
Martin’s journey into dance began at the age of 30 when he joined a Wednesday night group class. Since then, his passion for learning and dancing has been unwavering. Now 68 years old and still working full time, Martin dedicates between seven to eight hours each week to dancing.
Over a competitive career spanning 17 years, Martin has participated in numerous competitions across Australia and overseas, including New Zealand. Among his many memorable performances, those for senior citizens stand out most—being a senior himself, he values the opportunity to entertain and connect with this audience deeply.
In mid-2019, Martin began assisting with Ballroom Fit’s Ability dance class. He quickly found this experience so rewarding that it became one of the highlights of his week. By early 2020, he was invited to partner an All Abilities lady dancer, and together they have achieved significant milestones. Martin has also continued to partner students with Vision Impairment.
In 2025, Martin was recognised by the Australian Dancing Society, Western Australian branch, for his dedicated service as a videographer over many years.
What Martin cherishes most about Ballroom Fit is the positive and welcoming attitude of everyone involved, which makes every practice session genuinely enjoyable.
Irene Lamb
Dance Coach
Irene began her dance journey at the age of eight in London, where she studied Ballet, Tap, and Musical Theatre. Her early professional experience came at just twelve years old when she auditioned for the Ken Dodd Show at the London Palladium. The show ran for 38 weeks, and Irene fondly remembers balancing school lessons in the dressing room with the excitement of preparing for the performances each afternoon.
At thirteen, she secured her second paid role in a pantomime production of Jack and the Beanstalk at the same venue, performing alongside notable entertainers Jimmy Tarbuck and Arthur Askey.
In 2000, Irene took up Ballroom Dancing and successfully completed her gold awards in both Latin and Ballroom by 2005. She also competed alongside her husband in Latin and Ballroom during 2005 and 2006.
Her commitment to coaching was evident when she completed her Level 0 qualification with Linda Brown in 2006, alongside the National Coaching Principles Course. In 2011, Irene began teaching weekly Zumba classes, a role she continues to enjoy.
In 2018, Irene met me, and it was a privilege to assist with the newly formed Para Dance and Abilities Dance classes at Ballroom Fit—an experience she found both enjoyable and rewarding.
Since joining the Western Australian Masters Formation Team in 2021, Irene has also supported the Vision Impaired classes in Mandurah from 2022 onward, as well as conducting weekly private lessons for Vision Impaired students. In 2025, Irene was honoured with the VisAbility Award for Excellence in the Workforce, recognising her outstanding dedication to teaching dance to people with Vision Impairment.
She finds great satisfaction in witnessing her students’ progress and achievements across all dance disciplines, reinforcing the belief that everyone can dance.
Paige Ryan
Dance Coach
Paige began her dance journey at the age of four, studying jazz and ballet at a small, family-run company. Her favourite early memories revolve around the excitement she shared backstage at concerts with friends. After those formative years, she continued dancing for twelve years with Dance Ect. and during her time at Carine High School.
Now at Ballroom Fit, Paige teaches in the Ability Dance classes, making it her first experience as a dance instructor. She thrives on creating a fun and inclusive environment, where student suggestions help guide her class. Her teaching style revolves around high-energy party dances, games like musical statues and limbo, and a focus on making dance simple and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Paige enjoys teaching at Ballroom Fit because she finds it uplifting and loves watching her students have fun. The emphasis in her classes is on participation, ensuring everyone feels included regardless of ability or experience.
Alongside her work as a dance teacher, Paige is completing an Arts Degree at Curtin University. Her passion for both dancing and her academic studies shines through in her vibrant approach to teaching, which prioritises fun and engagement above all else.
Lauren Chisholm
Dance Coach
Lauren’s journey in dance began at a very young age, almost as if it were a part of her DNA. Growing up in a family where ballroom dance was a central focus, it was natural for her to be immersed in dance from the beginning. By age two or three, Lauren was already taking tap and jazz classes. Her formal introduction to ballroom dancing came at the tender age of four. Still, even before that, she was a constant presence in her parents’ ballroom dance studio, absorbing the rhythms and movements like a second language.
In 2018, Lauren’s commitment to dance took on a new dimension when she started assisting with the all-abilities kids’ class on Saturday mornings. This role, which she has passionately continued, has been a rewarding experience for her. Watching the children in the class grow and develop over the years has been a source of immense joy. This class has evolved into a teen class, reflecting the growth and progression of its participants. Lauren’s involvement has allowed her to witness firsthand the transformation of these young dancers into confident, skilled teenagers.
Two years later, in 2020, Lauren achieved a significant milestone in her dance career by becoming a qualified DanceSport scrutineer. This role requires a keen eye for detail and a rigorous understanding of competition rules and scoring systems. The qualification process was demanding, involving extensive study and high accuracy, but Lauren’s dedication paid off. She has been a vital part of DanceSport competitions for over a decade, and her contributions have been invaluable.
In addition to her role as a scrutineer, Lauren’s passion for teaching and mentoring shines through in her Saturday morning classes. She takes great pride in her work and finds joy in seeing the children grow in confidence and skill. The classes are diverse, incorporating partner dances, line dances, chair dances, and even the occasional TikTok dance. These sessions are not just about learning to dance but building confidence, fostering creativity, and creating a sense of community.
Lauren’s achievements are not limited to her roles in the studio and competitions. She has also completed her Community Coaching – Essential Skills certification from the Australian Institute of Sport, further enhancing her credentials and expertise. This qualification underscores her commitment to supporting her students in the All Ability Teens Class.
What Lauren loves most about her involvement with Ballroom Fit is the joy and fun that comes with it. She finds it incredibly rewarding to see the kids she teaches grow, not just in their dance skills but also in their confidence and overall development. The opportunities provided by Ballroom Fit, from awards nights to competitions and special events, offer these young dancers a platform to showcase their talents and gain recognition for their hard work. Lauren feels privileged to be a part of this journey, helping her students achieve their full potential and celebrate their successes.
Marnik
Dance Coach
Marnik’s dance journey began at the age of ten in Sri Lanka, where she immersed herself in traditional classical dance forms. This early engagement with the performing arts provided a strong foundation for her enduring passion for dance. At the age of forty-one, she embraced a new chapter by beginning Ballroom Dancing at Star Ballroom in Rockingham.
In January 2024, Marnik’s talent and dedication were recognised by the studio principal at Star Ballroom Rockingham, who invited her to assist in classes. This role allowed her to integrate her rich background in classical dance with Ballroom Dancing, enhancing the learning experience for both herself and her students.
Professionally, Marnik is an accomplished hairdresser and has recently taken on the responsibility of training apprentices fortnightly. She is also enrolled in a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment at Rockingham TAFE, further strengthening her capacity as an educator in both her vocational and dance endeavours.
Marnik is a committed member of the Sri Lankan Cultural Society of Western Australia, actively involved in performing arts and volunteering regularly at community events. Her contributions reflect a deep dedication to preserving and promoting her cultural heritage through artistic expression.
In addition to her involvement at Star Ballroom, Marnik has achieved Gold Levels in New Vogue, Standard, and Latin dance styles, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to mastering Ballroom Dancing.
Beyond her personal achievements, Marnik plays a vital role in the community through her work with Ballroom Fit. She leads Chair Dance Classes multiple times each month at aged care facilities including Singleton Aged Care, Brightwater Aged Care, Waikiki Aged Care, and McNamara Lodge in Meadow Springs. She values Ballroom Fit’s inclusive dance programmes, which offer opportunities for people of all abilities to engage with dance—a mission that resonates strongly with her own passion for teaching and community impact.
Florence Mellott
Dance Coach
Florence started dancing in her early 40’s and for twenty-odd years since then she hasn’t stopped. Dancing is her number one passion! Having gained a cluster of medals up to Gold level, Florence chose to study for a teaching Diploma (ADS Associate), under the skillful guidance of Mr Ron Barker – her Teacher and Mentor for more than a decade.
Florence assisted Ron with a class for Special Needs dancers, in readiness for their Debutante Ball. She also holds Certificate of Accreditation as a Level 1 Coach in Standard Ballroom Dancing. Florence has been a member of the Star Ballroom Formation Team. Florence is aware of the benefits of dance for all ages, and enjoys sharing her passion with young and old alike.
Laura Thorneloe
Dance Coach
Laura’s passion for Ballroom dancing began at the age of seven, inspired by countless viewings of Dirty Dancing, which remains her favourite film to this day.
In her early twenties, after a five-year break from dancing, Laura returned to competition, participating in both local and interstate DanceSport events. Her most successful partnership was with Chais Lunde, with whom she achieved strong results at the WA Open DanceSport Championship and the Australian Open DanceSport Championship.
Laura’s dedication to dance extended into teaching, where she contributed to the Humphreys Dance Schools Program and coached bridal couples at Humphreys Dance Studio. In 2018, she joined Ballroom Fit, where she proudly continues her involvement as a valued member of the WA Para dancer team. Laura teaches in our Ability Dance classes, offers private lessons, and works with bridal couples.
Lyn Boston
Dance Coach
Lyn’s dance journey began early, starting ballet and tap at the age of three, followed by ballroom dance classes in her teenage years. Over time, her interests expanded beyond dance to synchronised swimming, where she competed at both state and national levels, earning numerous medals.
In the 1980s, during the aerobics boom, Lyn established her own aerobics business. It was during this period that she developed a passion for working with special needs groups. She further pioneered aqua aerobics in Perth by founding Splash Dance Aquarobics, a dedicated business operating across five pools for fourteen years. Throughout this time, Lyn maintained her commitment to supporting special needs clients.
Lyn also pursued a career in education, training as a teaching assistant at the Western Australian College of Advanced Education in Mt Lawley, specialising in supporting students with special needs. Her involvement in movement-to-music programs during this time laid the foundation for her current role as one of our dedicated coaches in Ability Dance and Chair Dancing classes at Ballroom Fit.
Fay Budd
Dance Coach
Fay began dancing at the age of seven, inspired by her parents, both Ballroom dancers. She first learned to Waltz alongside her mother in the kitchen of their family home in Darkan.
Her formal training commenced under the guidance of Miss Penelope Kay in Sydney, where Fay was also invited to join an instructors’ team for new beginners, an early recognition of her aptitude for teaching.
One of Fay’s memorable dance experiences was partnering with the South Pacific Latin Champion—not his usual Latin partner—a performance she fondly describes as ‘magic.’
For many years, Fay was coached and mentored by Mr Ron Barker, where she undertook much of her formal dance education.
Fay’s teaching style is highly interactive and inclusive. She ensures that every student receives personal attention, fostering an environment where all feel supported.
Outside of dance, Fay holds accreditation with WorkSafe WA as a trainer for Health and Safety representatives. She delivers Level 2 Risk Assessment training for Rio Tinto employees and holds qualifications including Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE), Diploma of Retail Management, and Diploma of Frontline Management. Her dedication to excellence shines through in all she undertakes.
Since joining Ballroom Fit, Fay has appreciated the opportunity to teach in a hands-on, interactive way. She values witnessing students achieve milestones, however small, recognising that for some, even the simple act of swaying side to side represents a significant accomplishment—and for Fay, that is truly beautiful.
Fay’s commitment to inclusive teaching was further demonstrated through her work at the Gladys Newton School for children with complex disabilities. Over the course of a week, she collaborated closely with the Physical Education Teacher, engaging with nearly every student. Despite their diverse and often complex health and mobility challenges, Fay was able to encourage each child to achieve their personal best and enjoy their time in class.
Looking ahead, Fay is eager to expand her work across diverse demographics, with a particular interest in supporting individuals recovering from stroke.
Leigh Campbell
Dance Coach
Leigh’s interest in Ballroom Dancing was sparked in 2007 while working as a barman at the Embassy Ballroom. Through friendships formed within the dancing community, he began taking social dance lessons himself. Eventually, Leigh left bartending to devote himself fully to dancing, frequently spending six nights a week on the dance floor.
When the Embassy Ballroom closed, Leigh recognised a gap in the social dance scene: the need for an accessible platform linking dancers with venues. He responded by creating the website www.perthballroomdancing.com.au, which has since become a popular resource among Western Australia’s social dance community.
Leigh advanced his skills through the medal program at Humphreys Dance Studio. Inspired by his wife, a DanceSport competitor, he progressed to competitive DanceSport himself. As a founding member of the Western Australian Masters Formation Team, Leigh has travelled extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand with the team.
Leigh also enjoys organising and networking dance events, further enriching opportunities for social dancers in the region.
We also recommend you view Para and Ability Dance Western Australia for further details on dancing opportunities for people living with physical and intellectual disabilities.