Students from local dance school, Dance HQ, have returned to Orange with a spring in their step after some amazing results at the Showcase National Dance Championships.

The largest dance event in the country, Showcase National Dance Championships attract entries from the top dance studios from across Australia and New Zealand — all competing for the title of Australia's top studio.

Dance HQ took 40 students, ages 6-17, to the Gold Coast to attend the Championships held January 17-23.

“To attend this, we had to qualify at a smaller eisteddfod, which we were successful in securing a place for six group routines,” Dance HQ founder, Emily Goodwin said.

“This opportunity was important for us, not to win a place but to inspire our kids and expose them to something bigger.” 

But Emily said they received some amazing results, with their junior jazz group placing third, and senior jazz group finishing fifth overall.

“Our students also competed in solos where they also received incredible results!” Emily said.

“Some mentionable ones include: Laura Harrison, second overall in the junior division; Marley Braid, fifth overall in the junior division; and Eloise Harrison received fifth overall in the teen division — this basically means they received the top scores for their age group!

When not dancing, the team enjoyed exploring the Gold Coast beaches, theme parks and shopping centres, Emily said.

“This was such a rewarding experience for everyone who attended,” she said.

“It was definitely a highlight for our dancers and we look forward to seeing their newly ignited passion and drive this year!”