When Annette Butterworth found out about BusyFeet at Chadstone, her initial reaction was: “Why don’t we have one in Melton?” She talks about bringing the dance program for children with disabilities to her home town.
What’s your connection to Melton?
We’ve been here ever since we got married – that was 42 years ago. We’ve been in Eynesbury for seven years now. The kids had all grown and moved out, and we wanted a bit of peace and quiet.
What’s your favourite thing about living at Eynesbury?
Eynesbury is just quiet and peaceful. You wouldn’t think it was only 10 minutes out of Melton. I really enjoy the quietness.
What would you change about the area if you could?
Probably a few more facilities, such as a supermarket. And we really need a school – for younger families that’s a bit of a pain – but, apart from that, nothing else. That’s why it’s so quiet here.
Where’s your favourite place to hang out in Melton?
Oh, I don’t know. I really like the Courthouse Cafe, but we usually hang out in Eynesbury, at the homestead. It’s just across the road, and we get coffee or have dinner.
How did you get involved with BusyFeet Melton?
It started as a Rotary program at Chadstone. I knew there wasn’t anything like that here and I thought ‘why not?’ We started at Melton in October, 2014 and, in the last six months, we’ve started another group in Hillside.
We’re supported by the Rotary Club of Caroline Springs.
Why do you think it’s important to offer a service like this in the municipality?
It’s really nice to give them the opportunities that other kids are getting. It gives them the confidence to be able to perform in front of large audiences.
They performed at several Christmas parties and really enjoyed it.
It’s also a gold coin donation, so it’s affordable for parents.
What’s been the most rewarding part of watching BusyFeet Melton grow?
Just to see how much the children are enjoying it … you can see their confidence grow, motor skills improve and they’re making friends … but we need more volunteers.
The more volunteers we have, the more children we can cater for.
What’s the feedback from parents like?
They’re rapt with it. The parents get some time out – they sit in another room, have a coffee and chat, and can network with other parents.
Details: 0401 031 917
