The Hilltops Community Hub has joined forces with dance instructor Jessica Conneely to bring a range of dance-based wellbeing programs to Young, with something on offer for both younger and older adults. These new initiatives are about more than just movement; they aim to build community, support mobility, and foster social connection through the joy of dance.
Jessica, an experienced teacher who specialises in dance and movement for older adults, has created a new beginner-friendly program for younger adults aged 18 to 45. The program, developed in collaboration with the Young Community Hub, kicked off on Friday, August 1, and will run weekly from 1:30 to 2:30 PM at the Young Services Club in the Flamingo Room.
“I’ve partnered with Young Community Hub, and we felt that some young adults could benefit from a gentle dance program,” Jessica explained. “It’s really for beginners, very basic so that anyone can join in, even if they’ve never danced before.” The class is scheduled to suit young adults who may have children, with childcare available on-site thanks to support from the Community Hub. “We really wanted to remove as many barriers as possible for participation,” Jessica added.
This program expands Jessica’s work in Young, where she currently runs two other classes aimed at older adults. One of those, “Moving Well Mobility”, is for people aged 50 and over who are active but may be experiencing issues with balance or coordination. “This program runs on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, also at the Services Club,” Jessica said.
“We often use the Flamingo Room, but sometimes the auditorium if needed. It’s designed for over-50s who are still active, but maybe not quite up to something like Zumba. We focus a lot on coordination, brain stimulation, and improving balance.”
Jessica’s approach is inclusive and adaptable, with movement offered at three different levels starting seated, moving to supported standing behind a chair, and then, for those able, standing and moving freely across the floor. “I try not to stick to one dance style. We mix it up,” she said. “One week might be Latin-inspired, and a few weeks later we might try a Renaissance court dance. It’s not just fun, these flowy movements really help with balance and coordination, and they’re safe and gentle.”
Jessica also leads a third, more specialised class immediately following the Tuesday morning session. This program takes place at the Uniting Church Hall and is specifically tailored for people living with Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, stroke-related conditions, or other mobility challenges. “This class is for those with lower mobility levels. We stay seated for longer, and gradually progress to supported standing. Over time, we work to help people regain or maintain their ability to stand and move, which is key to independence,” Jessica said.
“The social side is just as important as the movement,” Jessica explained. “In research terms, this is called an ‘enrichment model.’ You offer the physical exercise, then follow it with social connection. For some of our older participants, this might be the only outing they have all week.” Whether it’s boosting physical confidence, improving balance, or just enjoying a chat over a cup of tea, Jessica’s programs are helping people across the Hilltops region stay active, connected, and mentally engaged.
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