This winter has been a tough one for many in the south west, with constantly changing COVID-19 restrictions, devastating tourism impacts on the region, staff shortages, building delays, pressures on the medical system and the emotional stress of families separated by distance with no end in sight.
As a microcosm of the local community, members of the Margaret River Concert Band (MRCB) are no exception.
But Spring is coming and so is the MRCB's Cowaramup Spring Dance this Saturday, September 4.
Braving many stormy, windy Monday nights, band members have been working very hard on their repertoire to bring a fun-filled, toe-tapping evening of jazz, swing and rock and roll numbers for the whole family to enjoy.
Supported by the vocals of Andrea Frances Manners and the Riversong Choir, the evening presents an opportunity to cast aside the winter blues and hit the dance floor.
"We don't know what COVID restraints are coming our way, so it's fabulous that we can still get out there and provide an evening of heartfelt, live music that everyone can come along to," said band member Maureen Gittos.
Held at Cowaramup Hall, the evening will allow patrons to pre-order cheese platters and purchase snacks, beer and wines at the bar, with warm heaters and lively dance music to keep the winter chills at bay.
Band President Tony Barugh said financial support from the Margaret River Lions Club has allowed the band to source a trailer to store and transport equipment to gigs, while the Shire of Augusta Margaret River supported the Spring Dance.
"This is the second year the band has held its Spring Dance in Cowaramup," he said.
"To enable us to flourish and bring these events to the community, this kind of support is invaluable. We hope, in return, the community supports us by coming along to the Spring Dance. They won't be disappointed."
For more info and tickets visit www.mrcb.com.au or purchase tickets from the Golden Jersey, Cowaramup.
