In a heartening display of philanthropy and passion, line dancers Claire Harris and Kate Strong, having left their jobs in 2022, embarked on an ambitious Boot Scootin’ line dancing journey across Australia.
Their adventure, which spanned from WA to SA, QLD, and NT, is now set to make waves in Tasmania. With a mission centred around hosting ‘Hoedowns for country towns’, the duo has been successful in raising considerable sums for local charities.
The next chapter of their venture, which will be aired on Back Roads this Monday sees journalist Heather Ewart accompanying the duo as they traverse through Tasmania. Their dedication is evident in their mode of travel, as they reside in their car, holding night-time hoedowns that attract crowds in excess of 100 attendees.
Rachael Treasure, a renowned author, is among their ardent supporters. Having encountered the line dancing duo on Facebook, her entire life viewpoint underwent a transformative shift. In a gesture of appreciation and solidarity, she has extended an invitation to Harris and Strong to organise a hoedown at her farm located near the historical town of Richmond in Tasmania’s south.
In Tasmania, Harris and Strong’s initiative is particularly directed towards supporting a reputable mental health charity, Rural Alive and Well (RAW). RAW’s commendable efforts in collaborating with diverse country sectors, aiming to monitor and enhance people’s mental well-being, have had profound impacts. A testament to their efficacy is the life story of Paul Jordan, the esteemed skipper of the ‘Diana’ fishing vessel anchored in Hobart, whose life underwent a monumental positive shift owing to RAW’s intervention.
In a related vein, BACK ROADS also casts a spotlight on the innovative mental health approach undertaken by The Grumpy Goat Co., managed by Alyssia and John Coates. Located near Smithton in the state’s northern region, this care farm is home to 80 goats and offers therapeutic engagements for local youths.
The show, produced under the aegis of Executive Producer, Brigid Donovan, promises viewers an in-depth exploration of the intertwined narratives of charity, passion, and community spirit in Tasmania.
Production credit: Executive Producer, Brigid Donovan.
