Sawtell Physical Culture Club, located in Toormina, is a vibrant and energetic dance club that has been operating on the Mid North Coast of Australia for over 56 years. Specialising in Physical Culture, also known as 'physie,' this club offers a unique dance experience that combines dance, floor, and standing exercises for girls and ladies of all ages starting from 3 years old. Physie is not just a hobby, but a way to meet new people, have fun, and get fit at the same time. Sawtell physie welcomes dancers of all ages, as once physie is in your blood, age is no barrier!
The origins of Sawtell Physical Culture Club can be traced back to its establishment in 1967 by Joyce Jeff. One of the first clubs on the Mid North Coast, Sawtell has thrived over the years with the dedication and passion of its current teachers and committee members. The club's principle instructresses, Sandy Mackay, Mandy Morgan, Karlen Pinkstone, Sophy Morgan, and Elly Bloomer, are all deeply rooted in the physie tradition, with familial ties to the club. They continue to uphold the club's legacy and teach a variety of classes catering to different age groups.
Sandy Mackay, the Principal Instructress, joined the club in 1975 and took over as the principle instructress in 1984 when Joyce Jeff retired. She currently teaches the senior age groups, including Senior Girls (17+) and Ladies classes. Mandy Morgan, Sandy's daughter, and Joyce's granddaughter, carries the physie tradition as an instructress for the 9-12 Year girls and 13-16 Year Girls. Karlen Pinkstone, another dedicated instructress, has been a part of the physie community since she was a toddler and now teaches Tiny Tots and 5-8 Years Girls.
Sophy Morgan, a fourth-generation physie girl, competes at a high level and teaches alongside Mandy for the 9–12 Years and 13-16 Years Girls. Elly Bloomer, also a fourth-generation physie girl, is a skilled competitor and assists in all classes.
The club is supported by a passionate committee who work tirelessly to ensure the smooth functioning of Sawtell Physical Culture Club. The current committee members include Kirsten Searle as President, Amanda Morgan as Vice President, Naomi Hudacek as Secretary, Chelsea Petravicius as Assistant Secretary, Sandra Mackay as Treasurer, Denise Hudacek as Assistant Treasurer, Elly Bloomer as Social Media Coordinator, and Kiara Seale as the social media assistant.
Physie, short for Physical Culture, is a unique competitive sport that combines dance, floor, and standing exercises. It is based on basic ballet and modern dance, offering a range of physical fitness benefits such as strength, flexibility, coordination, and improved posture. Engaging in physie not only helps boost these physical attributes but also builds confidence through participation in competitive events. At Sawtell Physical Culture Club, dancers can improve their strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
It is an opportunity to have fun, make friends, and keep fit.
Classes at Sawtell Physical Culture Club are held at Toormina Primary School, conveniently located in Toormina. Classes take place on Mondays and Wednesdays, providing dancers with regular opportunities to learn and grow in their physie journey. The club's website is a great resource for more information about classes and times, as well as a gallery showcasing the achievements of its members.
Welcome to Sawtell Physical Culture Club, where dance meets fitness and friendships are formed. Join the legacy that has been thriving for over five decades and experience the joy of physie in a welcoming and supportive environment. Contact the club for any inquiries and be a part of this dance club with a difference!