BOOT scooting, foot tapping and hip swirling is a familiar sight in country towns.
“Country music tells a story about life’s simple pleasures, told by artists who are ‘normal’, simple people who come from humble beginnings and attract genuine people from off the land,” Kerang Country Music Group spokesperson, Bev Goggin said.
The group celebrated the rise of the music genre with a variety country rock music concert at the Kerang Bowling Club on Saturday night.
Close to 50 Kerang music-goers were joined by those who travelled from Balranald, Bendigo, Calivil, Pyramid Hill, Swan Hill and Tooleybuc to dance the night away to The Mudslingers, the Echuca Country Music Club’s backing band.
Proceeds from the regular concerts will go towards the Kerang Carnival of Country Music festival, scheduled for September 2 and 3.
“We need to somehow come up with $4500 to run the festival, and without a community grant, we are holding as many events to raise the funds,” Mrs Goggin said.
“People love the atmosphere and it is fun entertainment for locals and oldies that can’t travel.”
A contribution is also made to the Bus Stop Opportunity Shop, which is raising funds for a community bus with wheelchair access.
Kerang ballroom dancer, Barb Turner, who participates in boot scooting twice a week, said country music is “good for the soul”.
“We used to travel all over Victoria competing in ballroom dancing – the modern waltz was beautiful,” she said.
The group’s next event is on Sunday, March 27, when Stephen Cheney will perform at the Ibis Caravan Park from 2pm to 5pm. Entry is $15 with a barbecue to follow.
To book a spot, contact Bev Goggin on 0417 158 338.
