The 'Unofficial Dunsborough Jazz Club' is back

A beloved music and social club is receiving an injection of energy and enthusiasm thanks to some passionate music lovers in the South West.

For more than 10 years, the Unofficial Dunsborough Jazz Club delighted fans with quarterly events at the old Dunsborough Hall.

“Over the years the event provided performance opportunities for numerous guest artists from the community, ranging from groups of young musicians, talented adult musicians and “ladies of swing”,” explained The Local Vintage band leader, Mike Wiese.

“It gave numerous local musicians exposure to playing at a high level, and professional exposure.”

As Mike explained, a few years ago the original cohort of passionate volunteers began to reach their 80s and the club fell quiet, “much to the disappointment of many in the area and across the state”.

Now, Margaret River-based South West Swing has picked up the idea and is set to revitalise the club, with a grand re-opening this month featuring Mike’s band, The Local Vintage.

“Our aim is to revitalise the club to provide more opportunities for engaging with the art and culture of jazz and to support local musicians, venues, and dancers,” South West Swing’s Lindsey Ngo told the Mail.

Mike Wiese said the involvement from South West Swing had seen dancing become “the other half” of the jazz experience.

“The skill and the spectacle complements the live music in an experience rarely seen anywhere in the state,” he said. “It’s beloved by the older crowd and by the dancers, ranging from 20s to 70s.

“I am delighted to see new energy and passion emerging from the South West Swing Dance community, keen to re-establish the event with some new twists.”

Lindsey Ngo said South West Swing was a not-for-profit group, meaning the Unofficial Dunsborough Jazz Club events were run purely to cover costs rather than making money from tickets.

She urged those who remembered the original club events, and all music and dance enthusiasts to come along to the March 23 re-opening.

“Whether you’re a long-time jazz enthusiast or just looking for a delightful way to spend the afternoon, this is an event not to be missed. Come and savour good music, great company, and the vibrant spirit of Dunsborough!”

The Unofficial Dunsborough Jazz Club restarts at St. George’s Hall, Dunsborough, on Sunday March 23 from 3pm to 6pm.

Tickets are $30pp (discounts for groups) and attendees can BYO their own spread of food and drinks to share amongst friends.

To book and for all info, visit www.facebook.com/SouthWestSwingMR