Shane Crawford and dance partner Ash-Leigh Hunter during one of their entertaining performances.
No doubt many locals were disappointed to see ex-local Shane Crawford and his dance partner, Ash-Leigh Hunter, eliminated from the semi-finals of Dancing With The Stars.
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However, Shane’s mother Dianne said she was thrilled with his performance.
Shane was happy to share his journey in the popular show with residents of his home town.
“I am so proud of the fact that I am originally from Finley,” he said.
Shane was invited to take part in last year’s series, however he declined as he was travelling overseas with his sons.
When approached to participate again this year, he was happy to accept.
“It’s all my mother’s fault,” he said.
“She taught us from an early age to always have a go.”
The procedure for practising and performing was changed slightly this year, with partner Ash-Leigh travelling to northern New South Wales where Shane and his family are located to practice for about a month.
This was followed by another month in Sydney for the build-up to finalise the production.
“I enjoyed the challenge of being taken out of my comfort zone, learning the different styles and techniques of dancing.
“It was hard work, however with encouragement from Ash-Leigh, I survived.
“My main focus was on having a good time and being entertaining.”
Judges for this year’s series were Craig Revel Harwood, Helen Richey, Shana Burgess and Mark Wilson.
“It was difficult to accept some of the criticism of the judges at times, but that is the nature of the show.
Finley's own Shane Crawford was partnered with Ash-Leigh Hunter for the reality show.
“All the contestants formed a close bond, and we were there to support each other at all times.”
When asked if he would consider doing it again if invited, Shane siad he had a different role in mind.
“Well, I have suggested to Channel 7 that I would be interested in taking on Craig Revel Harwood’s job.”
He may not have come away with the mirror ball trophy, but Dianne and Finley can be justifiably proud of Shane’s achievement.
It was interesting to learn that Shane has always loved to have a go at dancing, having been a constant attendee at the Blue Light Discos in Finley in his early years.
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