Dancing with our Stars 2026: What a Night!

Dancing with our Stars 2026 has officially danced its way into the history books, raising an incredible $306,000, the biggest result in the event's history.

Over ten weeks, ten local identities stepped well outside their comfort zones and embraced the challenge of Dancing with our Stars. Their enthusiasm and commitment created a truly spectacular evening.

Together with their dance partners from The Dance Studio, and guided by Shelley Ross, they delivered an unforgettable night of entertainment while raising an extraordinary amount for the Ballarat community.

The Stars of the Show

Nadine de Alwis and her partner Horace Tang opened the evening with an energetic Samba, setting the tone for a spectacular night of entertainment.

Jodie Farralla and Mark Vanderkley brought drama and elegance to the dance floor with their passionate Tango.

Kirk Baine and Alicia Wang Sheludko entertained the crowd with a lively Cha Cha full of rhythm and personality.

Shelby Sherritt and Stuart McLennan captured hearts with a graceful Waltz, which also saw Shelby take home the People's Choice Award.

LeRoy Hand and Emma Learmonth delivered a romantic Rumba that showcased both poise and connection.

Paige Brooks and Ashlie Ross wowed the audience and judges alike with their vibrant Quickstep, earning them the Judges' Choice Award.

Heidi Biggin and Adrian Misseri brought strength and intensity to their powerful Paso Doble.

Jesse Manton and Annie Alexander glided across the floor with a classic Foxtrot, delighting the crowd with their smooth performance.

Paige Gercovich and Scott Cornwell charmed the audience with a beautiful Viennese Waltz filled with elegance and style.

Dustyn Rodgers and Holly Learmonth closed the competition in spectacular fashion with an energetic Jive, helping Dustyn claim the title of Overall Winner.

Each performance brought something different to the dance floor and helped create an unforgettable evening. Throughout the campaign, this year's Stars embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and supported one another every step of the way.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful hosts, Tim Bone and Julia Zass, who once again gave their time so generously and guided the evening with warmth, humour and professionalism.

Thank you to our judges, Peter Head, Kelli Brogan and Gemma Snibson, who brought their expertise, encouragement and enthusiasm to the dance floor. Their thoughtful feedback and passion for dance helped make the evening even more special. And a big thank you to Mark Nunn, who once again acted as auctioneer.

A very special thank you goes to Shelley Ross and the incredible team at The Dance Studio. For more than 34 years, The Dance Studio has shared the joy of dance with the Ballarat community, and once again Shelley and her talented team donated countless hours to bring the magic of Dancing with our Stars to life.

To the amazing dance partners who all volunteer their time: Horace Tang, Mark Vanderkley, Alicia Wang Sheludko, Stuart McLennan, Emma Learmonth, Ashlie Ross, Adrian Misseri, Annie Alexander, Scott Cornwell and Holly Learmonth; thank you for your patience, encouragement and expertise. You helped our Stars shine and created memories that will last a lifetime.

A big thank you to Harvest  and Lawrence from Ballarat Event Styling helped create a magical look for the evening; Richard from Stems Flower Market who somehow manages to do more with less every year and always delivers with a smile; and Dan from The Green House Ballarat who generously donating  plants, to help transform the venue.  

Thank you to our generous sponsors and supporters whose belief in this event helps make it all possible. Your contribution extends far beyond one evening, supporting programs and initiatives that strengthen our community and create opportunities for local people to thrive.

And finally, thank you to the Ballarat community. To everyone who donated, attended, volunteered, bid in the auctions, purchased raffle tickets, cheered from the audience and supported our Stars throughout the campaign – thank you!