Bush dance unites community in support of World Youth Day

By Heather Excell

Laughter, music and plenty of dancing filled the St Francis Xavier parish hall on 20 June as more than 50 people gathered for a Bush Dance fundraiser supporting pilgrims preparing for World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul.

Inspired by the success of previous bush dances held across the Archdiocese, Director of Youth Evangelisation, Darcy Rogers, saw the event as an opportunity to bring people together during the winter months while raising funds for pilgrims.

“Not only did it provide relief from the cold and a time to socialise with friends, but it was also an opportunity to raise much-needed funds that directly impact young adults attending the World Youth Day Seoul event in 2027,” Darcy said.

The atmosphere throughout the evening was lively and welcoming, with participants of all ages filling the dance floor and embracing the dances under the guidance of a live caller.

“Over 50 participants lined the dance floor expectant of a great night, and that it was!” Darcy said. “The room was filled with laughter and encouragement for those trying some new moves.”

One of the highlights of the evening was the enthusiasm of those in attendance.

“I was blown away by the enthusiasm and youthful spirit of all our participants,” Darcy said. “The joy of Christ was radiating through our fellowship, dancing, and selfless giving towards this cause.”

Darcy credited the event’s success to the generosity of the wider Catholic community, dedicated volunteers and local businesses that contributed raffle prizes and support. Prize sponsors included Urban Craft Meats Co., The Little Flower Handmade, Gangnam Korean Food + Bar, and Golf Park Hobart. Dominos also sponsored pizzas for the evening.

Pilgrims were encouraged to get involved by promoting the event, selling raffle tickets, and volunteering on the night with ticket sales, food sales, set-up and pack down.

Darcy emphasised that the support offered through events such as the Bush Dance extends beyond financial assistance.

“To support a pilgrim attending World Youth Day is to help create opportunities for encounter with Christ,” he said. “These experiences can deepen a young person’s faith, strengthen their sense of mission and equip them to share that faith with others when they return home.”

Following the success of the evening, Darcy said the Youth Office hopes to host another bush dance in the North of the state, opening up participation to more communities.

He encouraged parishioners to continue supporting World Youth Day pilgrims through prayer and financial assistance, noting that every contribution helps make the pilgrimage possible.

“If you see any of your young parishioners raising funds for the WYD pilgrimage, discern if you would like to accompany them financially or prayerfully,” he said.

“Every effort goes a long way.”