LAURA ALLOMES – 5678 Academy of Dance
My love for dance started back in 2009 at 5678 Academy of Dance, where I first discovered the magic of the stage. What started as an after-school activity, quickly evolved into a lifelong calling, leading me from a dedicated student to an assistant teacher. Immersing myself in a diverse range of styles, I embraced every performance opportunity that came my way - from being a member of the Maitland Mustangs Performance Group, to participating in productions within the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and performing in the touring 80s musical ‘All Fired Up.’
Dance has remained the one constant in my world, helping me discover a deeper passion for mentorship. Finding joy in guiding others, ultimately inspired me to pursue a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary).
Today, as an Accredited Teacher with experience across both the childcare and NSW education sector, I am incredibly passionate about the profound impact educators have during a child’s formative years. My teaching philosophy centres on building strong relationships and creating supportive environments where every child can grow at their own pace. This is reinforced by my work as a dance teacher and Certified Pilates Instructor - roles that have refined my ability to observe the finer details and provide truly tailored, responsive care.
Beyond the classroom and the studio, my heart belongs to my family. As the youngest of seven children and an aunty to 12, I’ve been surrounded by the joy and chaos of childhood my entire life. When I’m not teaching or dancing, you’ll likely find me at the beach or spending time with my puppy!
My main motivation for joining Stars of the Hunter is my brother-in-law—the kindest and most patient person I have ever met. The past 5 years has seen him locked in a relentless battle that no one should have to face. In 2020 he was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, enduring a hip replacement and extensive chemotherapy, just two weeks after the birth of his second child.
While he initially reached remission, the battle began again in 2022 with a diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). Since then, he has endured two grueling bone marrow transplants and spent countless months at Westmead Hospital, separated from his wife and two young children. He has missed Christmases, birthdays, soccer games and dance concerts—the precious moments of watching his children grow up. Seeing the devastating impact not only on him, but his family and children is what fuels my commitment to this campaign. It is heartbreaking to witness how much cancer steals—not just health, but time, presence, and the simple joys of being a father. I am dancing to honor his incredible resilience and to ensure that the Cancer Council can continue providing the vital support and research that families like ours so desperately need. My goal is to turn my admiration for his bravery into action, raising funds so that fewer families have to endure the pain of separation and more patients get the chance to come home to the milestones they deserve.
DOMINIQUE HEPWORTH – 5678 Academy of Dance
Miss Dominiquè has dedicated over 23 years to the professional dance industry, beginning her artistic journey 37 years ago at The East Maitland Academy of Dance under the guidance of Daphne Parker.
Trained in ballet, modern contemporary, and jazz, she secured a classical ballet scholarship to attend the prestigious The McDonald College of Performing Arts in Sydney, where she performed at iconic venues such as the Sydney Opera House.
Her career took an exciting turn as she ventured into professional sports entertainment, dancing for a decade with the NRL Newcastle Knights and the NBL’s Hunter Pirates. She quickly advanced to choreographer for the Knights’ Cheersquad and The A-League Newcastle Jets which led to the opportunity to choreograph backup dancers for renowned Australian artist Jessica Mauboy.
Dominiquè further honed her craft in the United States, where she engaged in extensive training with the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders and the Spurs Dancers of the NBA.
In 2007, she opened her Rutherford dance studio 5.6.7.8 Academy of Dance, committed to providing a welcoming, non-competitive environment. Over the past 19 years, her studio has focused on personal development and community engagement, regularly performing for local nursing homes and serving as the official dance squad of the Maitland Mustangs Basketball Association for 18 years.
Her passion for the arts extends to work on prestigious Screen Australia productions, including "Home and Away" “Love Child” “Dead Lucky” and the film "Palm Beach, to name a few.
Dominiquè's journey is a beautiful testament to her belief in dance as an art form that enriches lives and builds community.
ATALIE WILMOTH – Pivot Studio
Atalie has worked as a professional dancer and singer in cabaret shows in Japan and on cruise ships throughout Asia.
Atalie performed in corporare productions in Hong Kong, moving on to dance in a musical 'Tempo' at Casino Estoril in Portugal for a year.?
Following this Atalie worked dancing in shows at a resort in playa del carnen Mexico for another year, then returned to Australia to work in multiple shows and productions over a 10 year period.
These shows included performing at the closing ceremony of Indian Fashion week in New Delhi, numerous corporate?events throughout Sydney, singing with Afro Moses Ghanaian singer and choreographing and featuring in a TVC for Hyundai in Seoul Korea .
Atalie moved back to her home town of Newcastle after these years of dance and opened Pivot Studio, focusing on drop in classes for adults.?
SIMONE MERRICK – Hype Dance HV
Simone is a 29-year-old mum of three and the proud owner of a thriving dance school in the Hunter Valley. With a lifelong passion for helping young people discover their confidence, resilience, and best selves, she has built a community-first studio that reflects her values of connection, respect, and perseverance.
Simone has been actively involved in volunteering since she was young and continues to give back through her role as the Volunteer Community Engagement and Media Officer for the NSW State Emergency Service. She loves being part of something bigger than herself and is always the first to put her hand up to help.
In the studio, Simone’s favourite style to dance is tap, but she has a special love for choreographing lyrical, where she can blend storytelling with emotion. Whether she’s teaching, creating, volunteering, or raising her three girls, Simone brings energy, heart, and a genuine desire to uplift every person she works with.
“Being involved in Stars of the Hunter is incredibly meaningful to me on both a personal and community level. My mum is a cancer survivor, and watching her strength, resilience, and courage has shaped who I am. Taking part in this event is one small way I can honour her journey and support other families walking a similar path.
I’ve always loved giving back, and combining that with my love of dance makes this fundraiser even more special. Sharing the joy of dance while raising vital funds for the Cancer Council is something I’m truly passionate about.”
Atalie moved back to her home town of Newcastle after these years of dance and opened Pivot Studio, focusing on drop in classes for adults.?
SALLY ANN CAWTHORNE – HVT Studio of Performing Arts
“I started dancing at age 3 and have trained in Jazz, lyrical, Tap, Ballet, Acrobatics, Cheer, Pom, and Hip Hop. I have performed at Starstruck, taken the stage in musical theatre’s Wizard of OZ and Grease, and competed at national cheer and dance events across Australia and Hawaii.”
MELISSA SULLIVAN – Galaxy Talent Academy
“From the moment a very shy six-year-old me stepped into my first dance class, I knew I had found my home—and eventually, my purpose.
While performing has always sparked joy, it was the magic of teaching that truly captivated me. Watching children transform from tentative beginners into confident, expressive, skillful performers—both onstage and in life— has been my greatest privilege for over 35 years.
As the founder and visionary of Galaxy Talent Academy for more than two decades, I have devoted my career to creating a place where every child can shine.
My passion for inclusive arts education has led me to continuous training and advocacy, ensuring our team is equipped to support neurodivergent students and dancers with physical challenges in ways that help them thrive. I believe wholeheartedly that performing arts should be accessible, affirming, and empowering for every young person.
Across my teaching journey, I’ve had the joy of witnessing countless stars rise, including creating a team made up entirely of teachers that had learned at Galaxy.
Recently I experienced some dreams of my own come to life. In October 2025, I was honoured to receive the Australasian Dance Educators Award for Excellence in Diversity & Inclusivity, as well as Silver for the Hall of Fame, recognising studio owners serving their communities for over 20 years. None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my incredible husband, our two beautiful daughters, and my wonderful parents—who taught me from the beginning that anything is possible when you lead with heart, courage, and a whole lot of sparkle.
My motivation for entering Stars of the Hunter is simple: I want to give back to the community that has always shown such generosity, kindness, and support to me and to Galaxy. When opportunities arise to serve, I feel a deep responsibility—and privilege—to step forward. This cause is also profoundly personal. Like so many families, mine has been touched by cancer, as have members of our beloved dance community. The impact of this disease is relentless, and the need for continued support, research, and hope has never been greater. To be able to take part in something joyful—something that lifts spirits, brings people together, and celebrates life—while also helping raise essential funds in the fight against cancer… it’s an honour I couldn’t possibly decline.”
KIAH VAN DEN HEUVEL – Expressions School of Dance
“Hi, I’m Kiah! I am a qualified dance teacher - Teaching Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Acrobatics, and Allstar Cheerleading.
I began dancing at the age of 2 and have been sharing my love of dance with other kids since I was 13. Now I own my own studio, and some of my most recent proud moments include seeing students I’ve taught since they were tiny dancers be selected to compete at the 2026 ICU World Dance Championships as apart of Team Aus.
Outside the studio, my two beautiful girls, Hallie and Ayla, keep me busy— though I used to love riding motorbikes and growing up, I was obsessed with horse riding!
When the team at Stars of the Hunter reached out, I was immediately excited! I love how dance brings joy and confidence to people of all ages, and this event is the perfect way to share my passion, inspire others, and celebrate the magic of dance while raising funds for an incredible cause.”
LACEY Eeels – Expressions School of Dance
Lacey is an 18-year-old dancer and choreographer based in the Upper Hunter Valley, at Expressions School of Dance, where she grew up training after moving from Sydney at a young age.
Over the years, Lacey has cometed accross Australia and internationally, proudly earning national titles in New Zealand.
When she's not in the studio, Lacey works as an Early Childhood Educator, a role that compliments her leadership role facilitating the studio's Pre School Program.
Lacey enjoys teaching a variety of styles but has a particular passion for Allstar Cheerleading, Acrobatics and Hiphop. She loves helping students build confidence, strength and performance skills.
Lacey is currently in Florida, USA after being selected for the Australian Representitive Hiphop Team where she is competing at the ICU World Dance Championships.
Lacey is excited to be able to share her love for dance and teach someone else something that she is passionate about all while contributing to an amazing cause.
SCOTT GUNTHER – Auz Dance Collaborative
As the director of Auz Dance Collaborative, Scott Gunther brings over 40 years of experience in the dance industry.
Scott has performed in and choreographed many musicals, and performance pieces.
Scott’s passion for dance started at the age of 2. Scott is dedicated to make sure all the students of ADC are taught with respect and nurtured through this individual journey to enjoy dance and be as supported and artistic as they can be.
Auz Dance Collaborative is “teaching the art of dance one step at a time”
CAITLIN BOYD - Auz Dance Collaborative
Caitlin has been passionate about dance from a very young age, beginning her training at just two and a half years old. She has trained extensively in tap, jazz and ballet, alongside vocal performance, developing into a well-rounded and versatile performer. Throughout her dancing career, Caitlin has competed in numerous eisteddfods, earning multiple championship titles and accolades for her technical skill, stage presence and dedication to her craft.
Caitlin received her formal training under the guidance of highly respected instructors, including Kirsty Gunther at the Kirsty Gunther Academy of Dance and Cherin Pullar, both of whom played a significant role in shaping her strong foundation and love for the performing arts and now performs with Auz Dance Collaborative.
Alongside her achievements in dance, Caitlin is a Senior Dental Assistant at Happy Tooth in Cessnock, where she is known for her professionalism, compassion and strong work ethic. Her commitment, discipline and ability to balance creative passion with a professional career reflect her drive and versatility both on and off the stage.
JENNA McCARTHY – YOUR FIRST DANCE CO.
Jenna is a passionate and dedicated dance teacher, choreographer and performer based in the Hunter region. With over 20 years of dance experience, she has trained extensively across multiple styles including jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical, musical theatre and heels. Her love for performance began at a young age and has grown into a lifelong commitment to the art of dance. Throughout her training years, Jenna competed at numerous eisteddfods and competitions, performing in solos, troupes and elite teams. These experiences shaped her strong stage presence, technical foundation and deep appreciation for storytelling through movement. In 2025, Jenna had the incredible opportunity to travel to the United States where she performed at Disneyland in Los Angeles and Universal Studios Hollywood. During her time abroad, she also trained in both Los Angeles and New York, taking classes from some of the world’s leading choreographers and industry professionals. This experience further expanded her artistry, versatility and understanding of the global dance industry. Today, Jenna shares her passion by teaching a wide range of students, from young recreational dancers to elite competition teams and adult classes. She is known for her high standards, creative choreography and ability to build confident, empowered performers both on and off the stage. Her choreography has received outstanding competition results and special adjudicator mentions, with her dancers recognised for their performance quality, stage presence and genuine love of dance. Jenna believes dance is more than steps — it is discipline, resilience, teamwork and self-expression.
"Cancer is something I hold very close to my heart. Like so many families, mine has been touched by it, and I have seen firsthand the strength, courage and resilience it demands. When the opportunity came to be part of Stars of Hunter, I knew I wanted to use my passion for dance to support a cause that means so much to me. This campaign is about more than performing — it is about honouring those who are fighting, remembering those we have lost and contributing to research, support and hope for the future. Dance has always been my way of expressing emotion and telling stories. Being able to step onto the stage with purpose, knowing that every dollar raised can make a difference, is what truly motivates me. I am proud to be part of this journey and grateful for the chance to turn passion into impact."
LUCY MURRY – HYPE
Lucy Murry is a dance teacher, choreographer and performing artist based in the Hunter Valley. Committed to sharing the arts as part of community building, she is engaged with the dance industry through competitions, exams, and community performances, where she has received many awards and results reflecting her passion, hard work, and dedication to the craft. Having trained at Hype Dance Hunter Valley (formerly Blu’s School of Dance) for over 15 years, she now fosters creativity, teaching and mentoring the emerging creatives of the Hunter. She currently studies a Bachelor of Arts at the university of Newcastle, and over the last 2 years performed in the Very Popular Theatre Company’s productions of Mary Poppins and Mamma Mia. All these experiences are great learning opportunities, but more importantly crucial for connecting and advocating for people - making them feel seen and heard.
Lucy’s family, like many others, has been affected by cancer in many ways. She is honoured and humbled to play a role in celebrating how Hunter Valley communities come together to help make a tangible and positive impact.
