Natasha Griggs (Solomon, Country Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It was great to once again attend Total Recreation's Dancing with the Celebrities Ball. This year I was given the tough task of judging the event, with fellow judges, Dr Len Notaris and Andrew Barcroft. Now in its eighth year, this event showcases the talents of people with disability in our community. Total Recreation members are partnered with local celebrities, and they attend classes for a couple of months practising for the big night. This year's event raised over $20,000, which was just fantastic. Great effort, everyone.

This year's participants included Richard Knuth and Tylea Herweynen; Caitlyn Strathie and the amazing Tony Burns; Amanda Mouthaan and Daniel Gerlach; Karen Klose and Lorenzo Strano; Margaret McGregor and Stephen Purkis; and Nicole Milsop and Hot 100's Harry Dodshon. Congratulations to everyone, but especially to my good friend Ray Roach, who took out the grand champion crown with his celebrity partner, Ilaria Brophy from local radio station 104.9. Joshua Kelly and the gorgeous Tina Griffiths were named best couple. Geoffrey Winsely and Athina Tsarbas were the rhumba champions. Matthew Lucas and Caroline Jape were crowned gypsy tap champions.   Callum Bateman and the acting Lord Mayor, Jeanette Anictomatis, were foxtrot champions. And Megan Bateman and Mark Taylor won the 'strictly ballroom' award. It was an amazing night and I thank everyone for a great night.