Convention Info – Conventions Board

What is a First Time Attendee?
A First Time Attendee is someone who has never before attended an Australian National Square Dance Convention.

The Australian National Square Dance Conventions Board understands that attending your first national convention can feel a little overwhelming—especially if you’re used to dancing only with familiar faces at your local club. But remember, not all First Timers are new dancers—some may have been dancing for many years and are just now attending their first National Convention.

To help ease this transition, the Convention Board hosts a “Meet and Greet” before each convention. This event gives First Time Attendees the opportunity to meet members of the Board and the local organising committee in a friendly, informal setting.

Each First Time Attendee also receives a special lapel badge to wear during the convention. This badge lets others know that you’re new to the event and may appreciate a little extra support or conversation.

After all, we were all First Timers once. So if you spot someone wearing a First Timer badge, please extend a warm welcome—you might just make a new friend for next year’s Convention!

Dancers Interest Meeting at the National Square Dance Conventions

This meeting serves a vital function within our community by providing dancers with opportunities to learn about developments in other states, upcoming national conventions, and the bidding processes for hosting
future events.

Most importantly, it offers dancers direct access to the Convention’s organising board, enabling them to share ideas, express concerns, and provide feedback about the conventions.
This input is valuable in shaping future events, ensuring they meet the needs and expectations of the dancers.

Historically, these meetings tended to be somewhat monotonous. However, this trend has changed with the introduction of a new format, which includes comprehensive reports from various state and other
bodies.
These reports are produced, published, and included in a special edition of the Australian Square Dance Review, distributed to all dancers in their convention packs.
This approach has minimized lengthy speeches and created more engaging discussions, allowing dancers more time to contribute their thoughts.

The recent meeting was informative, well-organised, and even enjoyable, with many attendees sharing laughter and camaraderie.
Dancers are strongly encourage to attend their next national convention’s Dancers Interest Meeting.
Such participation not only provides insight into the planning and organisation process but also offers an opportunity to voice ideas and opinions about our beloved activity.

We really hope to see increased attendance from dancers at future Dancer Interest Meetings to witness firsthand the work that goes into making these events successful and enjoyable for everyone.

Australian National Square Dance Conventions Board Inc