Organised by Hillsong Emerge, the dance competition, which runs from 1:30 - 4:00pm, aims to focus on the promising creative future and talent of inner-city youth, and shift the often-negative perceptions of the Block.
The inaugural event was held last year and included a memorial to the life of T.J. Hickey, a 17-year-old boy who died on February 15, 2004 after he came off his bicycle at high speed and was impaled on a metal fence, having believed he was chased by police.
With extensive support from the community support, the dance competition is a continuation of its existing community work in the area.
”’Stomp at the Block’ is being held in celebration of the Indigenous culture and also the surrounding community,” said Leigh Coleman, CEO of Hillsong Emerge. “This event gives opportunity for Young People to showcase their creativity and talent, strengthening relationship and building unity in the community.”
”There is a lot of support from the community. Schools are involved, along with different Indigenous and local personalities,” said Coleman
Dance groups will be performing before a panel of guest judges including former Super Middleweight titleholder, Anthony Mundine, who trains at the local Elouera gym.
As a not-for-profit organisation, Hillsong Emerge delivered a range of community services since 1989, in Sydney’s inner city and outer west, focusing on socially isolated people unable to access support. Hillsong Emerge adopts a community development model where community members are empowered to address the issues relating to their community.
