Sea of scarlet lifts spirits across Busselton

“I wanted all to sparkle and dance in a glorious jubilee,” wrote Emily Brontë in ‘Wuthering Heights’.

Last Saturday, those words came alive as Busselton’s foreshore and town centre transformed into a sea of red for the town’s first Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever.

The event, which raised over $1,000 for the Charlie Teo Foundation, brought together participants from all over the region.

“Everyone was in really good spirits,” organiser Karen Crutchlow said. “It was pretty incredible.”

After several participated in Bunbury’s event last year, they floated the idea of bringing it to Busselton.

“Everyone from Margaret River to Dunsborough had to travel to Bunbury for it. We thought, what a great idea to bring it to town!”

Zumba instructor Gisele opened her classroom for practice sessions, while yoga teacher Jan also offered space for rehearsals. “One lady designed the flyers, another printed them – everybody chipped in.”

Inspired by UK group Shambush’s Fringe performance celebrating Kate Bush’s iconic song, The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever has become a global phenomenon, with Australia hosting more events than any other country.

Participants learned choreography online, creating three performances at the Jetty, Origin Markets, and Mitchell Park.

From a one-year-old in her Nana’s arms to every age in between, the day celebrated inclusivity over perfection. “We had a lady in her 70s who didn’t learn the dance; she just trundled along and swayed to the music in the background, and Dougie, who lives with Parkinson’s, learned the dance step by step and went full throttle and even came dressed as Kate Bush!

“That’s what it was all about – the whole community coming together, and they did just that. Including the people who turned out to watch, despite the crazy, wild weather!”

Behind the red dresses and dance moves lies an inspiring story of resilience. The event supports the Charlie Teo Foundation, which is deeply connected to local Nina Concannon’s journey. Diagnosed with brain cancer in 2013, Nina faced a critical moment in 2020 when her previously stable tumour developed in her brain stem.

“They basically sent her home to get her affairs in order,” Karen recalled.

“She had three girls, one just entering high school. Nina has always been full of life, vibrant in the community, and consistently involved in everything. She didn’t give up!”

Dr Teo was the only surgeon willing to operate, leading to a successful but challenging surgery that left Nina with severe physical limitations.

“I’ve always been drawn to events that bring people together,” Nina shared. “Since my diagnosis, I’ve been very involved in raising awareness and fundraising for brain cancer. After Dr. Teo’s intervention, my focus has been on his research foundation and the amazing work he does – he saved and extended my life.”

Despite ongoing challenges and a less-than-ideal prognosis, Nina’s spirit remains as strong as ever.

“It’s either fall in a heap or do your best to live as well as you can every day with the time you’ve got left – and that’s Nina. Her family is incredible, too.

“They’re always so supportive, and that spills over to helping her achieve what she can for the community.”

Nina regularly chats with others facing similar diagnoses, sharing her experience with people across Australia and the UK.

“The love and support – not just for me but for each of us in the group – was amazing,” Nina reflected on the dance event. “Even though the day was grey, we brightened up a Saturday morning for so many people while providing an opportunity to raise awareness about brain cancer.”

As The Holistic Health and Cancer Coach, Karen sees great healing in such gatherings.

“When you can be authentic and just let it rip like that and dance all together – that’s what generates good energy. We may all look silly, but that’s okay, that’s part of the fun and the soul of it all. There’s healing in remembering how to play.”

Plans are underway for another event. Those interested can contact Karen via facebook.com/themostwutheringheightsdayever-busselton