The Country Dancehall Project blends the best of classic Aussie bush dancing with the energy of today’s “90s Country Revival” capturing the imagination of the 18–25’s and keeping the tradition alive for generations to come. It’s a fresh, lively way to pass on the joy of bush dancing.
At the helm is “Padre” John Healey, most recently of Simply Bushed. John began calling dances at just 16 at the Old Sydney Town Woolshed during the lead‑up to the Bicentenary — now just a “few short years on”, he’s called more dances than he’s had hot dinners and is still passionate about sharing the “Magic of Bush Dancing” with young and old alike, both on the stage and on the dance floor!
What a Dancehall Night Looks Like
The CWA is serving up a BBQ from 5.30pm (steak sandwiches and sausage sizzle), then a supper break at 7.30pm (tea, coffee, cake and slice). Kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone in between are out on the floor together, spinning through classics like the Heel & Toe Polka, Gallopede, Hokey Pokey, and the Virginia Reel (yes, including Strip the Willow).
Between dances, the room lights up with the rising stars of Australian country music. Think the nostalgia of Boot Scootin’ Boogie and Achy Breaky Heart mixed with modern favourites from Zac, Zak and Zach (Top, Bryan, Brown) and Luke, Luke and Luke (Combs, Bryan, O’Shea), plus original music from emerging artists.
It’s a night that feels both joyously familiar and brand new — a chance to kick up your heels in a “new old‑fashioned way.”
(Kidding about Luke O’Shea, we don’t play any of his songs even though he has had a significant influence in this project!)