My Dance Journey:

From Nervous Beginner to Passionate Teacher

I never set out to become a dancer, let alone a dance instructor. In fact, if you had told me years ago that I would be running dance events, teaching classes, and helping others find joy on the dance floor, I probably would have laughed enthusiastically. But life has a funny way of leading us to unexpected places—and for me, that place was the dance floor.

The First Steps: A Dance Floor Awakening

My journey into dance didn’t start with an overwhelming passion; it started with a nudge from a work colleague & friend. Originally from South Australia all this happened in the CBD of Adelaide. My friend saw an opportunity and, rather than letting me talk myself out of it, pushed me to give dance a try. I was hesitant—I didn’t know the steps, I had no natural rhythm (or so I thought), and the idea of dancing in front of others was daunting.

Despite my nerves, I took the plunge and attended my first social dance. It was both exhilarating and awkward—I stumbled, I stepped on toes, and I second-guessed every move. But something about it felt right. I then proceeded to keep showing up, kept practicing, and slowly but surely, the steps began to feel natural. More importantly, I began to feel confident. I then relocated to Gladstone QLD and was looking for something new after a couple of little life moments, as they happen.

Latino Grooves Dance — 2017 Adelaide - Latino Grooves Studio Dance night

Finding My Groove: Competitive Dance and the Joy of Social Dancing

As I progressed, my interest in dance deepened. My passion for dance really was truly ignited in the Latin clubs of Adelaide in 2017, more importantly at the Latino Grooves studio dance nights, and I received formal dance instruction starting in 2018 after relocating. I immersed myself in Latin styles, eventually earning a bronze medal in American Latin Dancesport. Competitive dancing taught me discipline, precision, and technique, but it was social dancing that truly captured my heart. There was something special about the connection, the spontaneity, and the way dance could bring people together, regardless of skill level or background.

I also ventured into Swing dancing, falling in love with East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, and Charleston. The energy and playfulness of these styles were infectious, and they complemented my Latin dance experience beautifully. Over time, I became proficient in salsa, bachata, cha cha cha, rumba, merengue, kizomba, samba, jive (American style/dance sport style), East Coast Swing, and multiple sub-styles of swing dancing. Additionally, I have some experience in foxtrot, waltz, old time (sequence dancing), new vogue, quickstep, paso doble, and zouk. I realized that dance wasn’t just about steps—it was about expression, connection, and having fun.

From Student to Instructor: The Birth of a Passion

As my confidence grew, so did my desire to share what I had learned. Friends and fellow dancers began asking for tips, and before I knew it, I was unofficially teaching. Seeing others experience their own dance breakthroughs was incredibly rewarding, and I realized that teaching was just as fulfilling as dancing itself.

My wife and forever dance partner, Emma, played a huge role in this journey. Together, we noticed a gap in our community—there weren’t enough inclusive, welcoming dance events where people of all skill levels could come together and just enjoy dancing. So, we decided to create our own.

Creating a Dance Community: Fiesta Loca Central Queensland

With a vision of fostering an inclusive, vibrant dance community, we launched Fiesta Loca Central Queensland. Our goal was simple: to make dance accessible, fun, and social. Whether it’s Latin, Swing, or Ballroom, we believe that anyone can dance—it just takes the right environment and a bit of encouragement.

Since then, we’ve hosted countless events, introduced many beginners to the joy of dance, and built a community that thrives on laughter, connection, and music. One of our most rewarding events is our annual Day of the Dead celebration, which brings people together in a colourful, energetic tribute to Latin culture and dance. Additionally, I spent several years running "River Nights" dance connection evenings in Rockhampton and have been a regular participant at the Ridgeland’s Agricultural Show. I also actively support and attend community dance events with my young family.

A Musical Heartbeat: A Lifetime of Rhythm

My musical journey has been just as significant in shaping my love for dance. I spent over 20 years playing the bagpipes in a pipe band, competing in state drill competitions, and over a decade as a bass guitarist in a nationally award-winning country music band. One of my earliest musical memories is chasing the pipe band down the main street during a Christmas parade at the age of five—a moment that foreshadowed my lifelong connection to rhythm and movement.

This deep connection to music eventually led me to become bilingual in Spanish, as Latin rhythms and culture became a central part of my life. Through dance, I not only discovered a passion but also found love—meeting my wife on the dance floor and starting a family together.

Stuart in Pipers Kilt — Piper's Informal Attire

The Road Ahead

In May 2024, I became an accredited Zumba instructor, expanding my teaching to include fitness-based dance. Looking back, I’m grateful for every step (and misstep) that led me here. Dance has given me confidence, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable experiences. It’s my mission to help others experience the same joy, whether they’re complete beginners or seasoned dancers looking for a place to belong.

If you’ve ever thought about learning to dance but hesitated—just go for it. I know what it’s like to feel unsure, but I also know how incredible it feels when you finally let go and dance.