Green and gold at UNDA for Zumba record attempt

The University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA) hosted a Zumba Fitness Party as part of the Mary MacKillop Foundation’s Green and Gold Day on Friday, October 14, to celebrate the legacy of Saint Mary MacKillop. Almost one year after the canonisation Australia’s first saint, UNDA staff and students joined thousands of other Australians in wearing the national colours while dancing through various Zumba routines. In addition to recognising the Foundation’s work in supporting people in need across Australia, the event also sought to break the world record for the greatest number of people attending and participating in a Zumba Fitness Party at multiple venues at one time in Australia. For Sister Kathleen Dawe from the Sisters of St Joseph’s of the Sacred Heart in Safety Bay, it was her first time participating in a Zumba class. Describing it as an “exhilarating experience” Sr Kathleen said it was important to recognise the several community projects the Foundation was involved in that assisted many Australian people. “The Foundation supports many projects across Australia. To see one of these projects come to fruition through our fundraising can bring a community alive,” Sr Kathleen said. Notre Dame’s Campus Minister in Fremantle, Tom Gannon, said the University was indebted to the works and visions of St Mary MacKillop. “The Zumba Fitness Party was a great opportunity for staff, students and community members to participate in something fun and exciting, while at the same time reflecting on the life of St Mary MacKillop,” Mr Gannon said. “For me, the celebration of St Mary of the Cross is a testament to the Notre Dame community that we can make a difference to others around us through small community-centred initiatives.” Since 1995, the Mary MacKillop Foundation has supported many important projects and initiatives around the country including disaster recovery in Queensland. Zumba classes are held at the Fremantle Campus every Thursday commencing at 5.30pm for $7. For more information, please contact 9433 0658 or fremantle.studentlife@nd.edu.au. MEDIA CONTACT: Michelle Ebbs, Tel (08) 9433 0569, Mob 0408 959 138 Leigh Dawson, Tel (08) 9433 0569, Mob 0405 441 09