Burpengary Regional Aquatic Centre in Queensland has been host to over 100 members of the community for an electric moment of dance to ‘Nutbush City Limits’ by Tina Turner, all to help house women over 55 who are experiencing homelessness.
The fundraising event raised over $3.3k for the charity The Forgotten Women, whose representatives attended the event, with every $50 helping one woman each week towards food or rent.
The event was organised by Kaz Bennett, Access & Inclusion Officer at Burpengary Regional Aquatic Centre. Kaz commented:
“Life can change in an instant, whether it’s the sudden loss of a loved one, the end of a job, a business collapsing or the heartbreaking reality of losing a home. These moments can happen to anyone, often without warning. And when they do, having support can make all the difference.
“One morning when I was going to work, I saw a mum in her car, having slept the night in there with her kids. I saw she had her work uniform on, and it broke my heart. I knew I had to do something to help.
“That’s why we’ve hosted The Nutbush for The Forgotten Women, to raise much-needed funds and awareness for older women who need a lifeline and assistance, who are so often overlooked and unheard.”
The Nutbush dance, familiar to many, brought community together whereby members of all ages and abilities were invited to wear a pink shirt or hat, stay for breakfast and refreshments and enjoy each other’s company.
The event sponsor, Changing Seasons, donated 200 sun visors to The Forgotten Women, which were available for sale both on the day and online.
Kaz continued, “Every dollar from the sale of these sun visors and all donations from the day have gone directly to these women, to remind them that they are not forgotten”.
The Forgotten Women is a grassroots housing initiative for homeless women over 55. The project’s mission is to ensure as many of these vulnerable women as possible have access to secure, safe and affordable housing options that enable them to age with dignity.
Kaz’s message to those in the community is one of unity: “If you can help in any way, by donating or simply spreading the word, please do. Together, we can offer hope, dignity and a reminder that someone still cares for those who need it most”.
With community support, Kaz hopes to make this an annual event every September. To get involved in the 2026 event, please contact Kaz here.
To discover more impactful community programs like these, visit Burpengary Regional Aquatic Centre and get involved today.
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