In Australia, from time to time, we hear of individuals who have displayed a high degree of passion and energy towards doing things in order to make a difference in other people’s lives. They did so not deliberately seeking out praise and glory but because they believe in the cause, and have a love for what they do.

This is no different in our rock & roll community. We want to acknowledge those individuals who are passionate about rock & roll and through the years have contributed towards keeping alive the rock & roll dream. If I may single out just one such individual - last night at the Whitehorse Club in Burwood, Little Maria along with 500 supporters celebrated the tenth anniversary of her fortnightly rock & roll dance. It’s a milestone deserving to be celebrated in my opinion.

What can I say – it was a fantastic night of celebration and entertainment. Free entry for all, and some came dressed for the occasion in a variety of outfits. As usual, Lt Maria was the perfect host welcoming one and all, chatting with them and taking pictures during the whole night. Of course, Lt Maria’s is all about promoting 1950’s rock & roll live music and dancing. The dance floor at the Whitehorse Club may be one of the largest in Australia but last night it was just not big enough to cater for all the dancers who happily took turns to share the dance floor. Music on the night was provided by the Vincents, one of Melbourne’s longest serving 1950’s style rock & roll bands. As a bonus on the night, there was a floor show exhibited by the Fourmost dancers. The anniversary cake was very yummy too.

My congratulations to Lt Maria for the tenth anniversary of her fortnightly rock & roll dance. I want to acknowledge her contribution in promoting rock & roll live music and dancing in Melbourne. I know how much work she has put in, not least the huge effort required in setting up the hall with tables and chairs plus all the decorations and the cleaning up after the dance. I really look forward to enjoying the next ten years of rock & roll live music & dancing at Lt Maria’s.