Three prominent locals have been busy learning routines and practicing their high kicks for next week's Stars of the Hunter Valley.
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The Advertiser's own Krystal Sellars, award-winning singer Tara Naysmith and business coach and emcee Anthony Burke are three of eight stars who will dance in the Cancer Council fundraiser at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre on June 29.
Ms Sellars has been juggling dance practice with being a new mum.
"I gave birth to Harriet in August and I've taken 12 months off work," she said. "I saw Stars of the Hunter Valley as a way to get involved in the community while I'm on maternity leave, and also hopefully make my daughter proud, doing something that will benefit her future and that of generations to come.
"And I've been entertaining Harriet by practicing my dance routine for her."
Working as a journalist was actually a factor in Ms Sellars taking part.
"Like most people, I've had family members and friends who have battled cancer," she said. "I'm also dancing for all of the people who have shared their cancer stories with the Advertiser in the 13 years I've worked here - there have been so many stories of courage, triumph and tragedy."
She's hoping her dance background will be an advantage, but admits she is a little out of practice.
"I danced for about 10 years as a kid, and I was also in the Mount View High aerobics team. It's been 18 years since I performed on stage, and I'm 36 in August, so literally half a lifetime ago!"
For, Ms Naysmith it was an "easy yes" when she was asked to take part.
Despite being a singer, dancing is outside her comfort zone, but she's having a great time learning the moves. "I have enjoyed every minute so far," she said. "I've also enjoyed running fundraising events, and would like to thank all those who have supported me and donated.
"I'm very much looking forward to the big night where we get to put all our practice to the test and most of all raise a whole lot of money for the Cancer Council."
Mr Burke said he was a little hesitant when asked to take part as he "can't dance".
"I then thought about those who are battling their cancer journey and me getting on stage and dancing for cancer was nothing compared to what they deal with on a daily basis," he said.
"I have always publicly said I gain financially from cancer. In my role as a funeral celebrant I have the honour of being part of many life celebrations for those who have died of cancer. While gaining business from cancer, this is another way I can give back. I started fundraising for cancer in 2013 and have raised over $100,000 with support from the community. Being part of Stars of the Hunter Valley is the icing on the cake for me."
Mr Burke's final fundraiser is an online auction which will kick off soon - see www.facebook.com/anthonyburke85 for details.
The Undeniably Noisy Project choir is holding an open night at Wild Learning on Wednesday, June 19 at 7pm, which will go to Krystal's fundraising. Entry is by donation.
To donate, visit starsofhuntervalley.com.