She may be pushing 90, but age isn't about to stop Audrey Eastgate from boot scootin' up a storm.
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The 88-year-old enjoyed her first ever line dancing class at Balwyn Evergreen Centre in eastern Melbourne on May 1.
An active and vibrant woman, Audrey said she didn't feel her age at all.
"I can't believe it, I really can't. I'd be lying if I said I don't ever (feel my age), but on the whole, no, I don't."
Audrey got a very brief taste of line dancing in an exercise class a quarter of a century ago.
She has wanted to take a class ever since, but couldn't find one in her local area. When she heard the Evergreen Centre was running classes, she was thrilled.
So, what did she enjoy about it so much?
"Just the music and the rhythm of it - the movement. It's just very pleasant to do. Time will tell if I'm any good at it," she said.
Audrey estimated there were almost 20 people at the first class. A few people she knew, and a number she did not.
She said the class had a very fun energy and everyone seemed to really enjoy it.
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"It was our first lesson yesterday, so you can imagine how much we learnt, there will be a few new steps to learn, a few things to keep the old grey matter working."
Audrey believes in maintaining a busy social life and active lifestyle. When she spoke to The Senior she had just returned from a walk in the park with a friend. She enjoys regular long walks, and also enjoys meeting with friends for lunches and regular activities at the Evergreen Centre.
Experienced instructor Joanne Campbell said classes were about much more than just dancing.
"Line dancing is not just about moving your feet; it's about connecting with others, enjoying great music, and improving overall wellbeing, coordination, balance, cognitive function and fitness," she said.
Classes at the centre take place fortnightly on Wednesdays from 11.30am-12.30pm. The cost is $19 per class, or $15 for those who have been assessed under the Commonwealth Home Support Program.
For more information call (03) 9836-9681. To find a line dancing class near you, visit https://classes.dancesheets.net/
