Dancing queen: Nicole Lindley in the spotlight with the Hastings Stars Dance for Cancer team. Photo: Stars of Hastings, Facebook page.
Dancing queen Nicole is a two-time winner
Jul 22, 2024Officially crowned the Dancing Queen of the MNCLHD, Nicole Lindley returned to work at MNCCI Port Macquarie following her double award-winning performance at Stars of Hastings Dance for Cancer.
Her many hours of practice earned Nicole both the Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice Awards for their astounding pole-dancing athleticism.
The dance scored 9.5 from celebrity judge Helen Richey from Dancing with the Stars, and 9 each from judges Caz Heise and Stacey Morgan.
“I was extremely surprised to win two awards,” said Nicole.
“There were a lot of spectacular performances and everyone put in 110 per cent effort.”
Team Nicole almost sauntered away with three awards, pipped at the post by Settlers Inn manager Zoe Archer who earned the award for highest fundraiser bringing in close to $32,682 for the Cancer Council. After the event, Nicole’s fundraising tally sits at $32,977. She had many generous supporters, particularly Hastings Fine Arts whose many members donated funds raised from sales.
“The experience was exhilarating and the energy from the audience was palpable,” Nicole said.
“It was amazing and supportive.”
While learning to flip upside down on a pole, Nicole said she gained more than added physical strength from the experience.
“It sounds cliche but you can do anything if you put your mind to it, and I encourage everyone to step outside their comfort zone. Don’t be afraid. You might have the best time of your life.”
Watch the performance, post-dance interview and judges’ comments https://fb.watch/tdWSaXmoZ0/.
MNCLHD ALO and artist Lois Sallustio donated an original hand painted artwork for Nicole’s fundraising efforts. The painting is called Entwined Spirits. Pictured from left are Kris Jurd, Lois Sallustio, and Liana Stewart.