NEARLY 400 people stepped out at Kennington Primary School on Saturday to boogie their way into the record books.
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The school jived its way into the Guinness World Records, setting a new mark for the most number of people in one place dancing to the Tina Turner classic ‘Nutbush City Limits’.
Three-hundred and ninety people joined the mass-line dance on the school oval, with the record attempt, eclipsing the previous mark by 140.
The event doubled as a fundraiser for popular former Prep teacher Mark Winter, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease earlier this year.
Assistant principal Trudi Jacobson said while it was hoped the record would hopefully stand for a very long time, it was more terrific to see the ongoing support for Mr Winter and his family.
“It was a great turnout – very successful,” Ms Jacobson said.
“He is such a well-respected member of our school community.”
The family day drew more than 500 people, with plenty of non-dancers called on to act as officials and witnesses for the record attempt.
Kangaroo Flat woman Val Payne said she heard the event being advertised on radio on Saturday morning and quickly made plans to be there with her grandchildren Diemie, Ben and Bridie.
She confessed to being a long-time fan of both the song and dance.
“I did it at the Pink Party at Maryborough a few weeks ago,” Mrs Payne said.
“I only get out twice a year and I’ve ended up doing the Nutbush twice within a month.
“It’s a perfect day – there should be more of these events.”
Singer Ali Watts, from Bendigo cover band Spies Like Us, said she had previously worked with Mr Winter and also his father David and were thrilled to contribute to the event.
“It’s a privilege - we are rapt to be here and part of it
“We have been doing it (the Nutbush) for years. It’s a great concept to bring a school together and raise money in a fun way and for such a great cause.
"It’s exciting to be part of history. The visual effect of that is pretty awesome too."
Bendigo Police Acting Sergeant Peter Dyer, who was one of three event witnesses alongside Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters and Justice of the Peace Peter Thorn, said it was a fantastic community event.
“That includes the Kennington Primary School community as well as the general community,” he said.
“It’s great to see everyone supporting such a great event.”