Cairns Rock and Roll Dance Club

The aims of our club are:
  • To promote and foster Rock and Roll dancing in all its forms.
  • To promote and foster Rock and Roll dancing lessons, conventions and gatherings for the benefit of musicians and the public alike.
  • To provide benefits and enjoyment for the members of the club, their guests and the general public.
  • To keep members and the general public informed of the activities of the club.

History of the Cairns Rock and Roll Club



The origins of the club go right back to 1989 when two keen dancers, Robert de Pugh from New Zealand and Connie Lands were joined by a few other enthusiastic dancers; Tony Dunne, Marilyn, Dianne, Pam Page, Robert Zemeske, Rata de Pugh and Heather Powers. They started dancing at Birdies Nightclub at the Great Northern Hotel in Lake Steet.

In 1991, as the group had grown in numbers, it was decided to turn the group into an incorporated club; The Cairns Rock and Roll Dance Club Inc. It had a constitution, regular lessons, venues and students. The club went from strength to strength and consequently had to change venues from time to time to cater for the increasing numbers and changing circumstances. These venues included The Nest Nightclub, the Railway Institute, Stratford Hotel, the City Club in Abbott Street, the Seniors Citizens Hall in Gatton street, the Masonic Hall on the corner of Grafton & Minnie Streets and now its present location, Crosswell Hall at Cairns State High in Grafton St.

In keeping with the aims of the club, over the years members have often attended many Cairns functions and events, participating in Rock and Roll demonstrations, private functions, school events and festivals. During the years 1995 to 2000 the Club entered a float in the very popular "Fun in the Sun" parade, later called the "Cairns Festival", giving much pleasure to both dancers and spectators.

For the Club's 5th, 10th and 21st anniversaries, celebratory functions were organised. The Club recently organised its 25th anniversary to celebrate on 16th August 2014 at the Edge Hill State School. As this date was also the anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, the theme for the night was appropriately "Jail House Rock".

2019 will mark the Club's 30th anniversary. Stand by for something special later this year.

Today, the club is still going as strong as ever. We have a strong dedicated committee who, as well as ensuring the smooth running of the club, are continually planning future events. Several Fund Raising dances are held throughout the year which are always very well attended and prove to be a great night of dancing and socialising.

We welcome new members of course, as well as past members who may wish to become involved once again.

We hope to see you soon!