Stars set to shine in 2026

Cancer Council NSW is preparing for the return of the Stars of Narrabri in 2026 and has put a call-out for community members to put on their dancing shoes and take to The Crossing Theatre stage.

The fundraiser has been enormously successful in recent years, with the most recent Stars event raising $115,000.

Community fundraising coordinator for Cancer Council NSW, Sally-Anne Whitten is excited about the event’s return to Narrabri, with the venue booked for March 28 next year.

“The money raised supports all of our services, however, especially Inala House,” she said.

Inala House provides dedicated accommodation to cancer patients receiving treatment in Tamworth. The accommodation service is frequently used by patients from communities in the North West, including Narrabri Shire.

In the last financial year, 1749 nights of accommodation were provided to 89 patients in a partnership between the Cancer Council NSW and Hunter New England Health.

A further 205 nights of accommodation at motels were provided to 55 patients, totalling $23,857 paid for by the Cancer Council.

Assistance is also provided in the form of the free Transport to Treatment service provided to people experiencing a cancer diagnosis and most in need. The service is supported by seven volunteer drivers and is in high demand every week, with vehicles driving 100,000 kilometres every year.

The 13 11 20 information and support line also logs 500 calls each year from the New England and North West.

Ms Whitten thanked the Narrabri community for its continued support.

“The Stars Dance for Cancer is also a good reminder for people to have their screening and to keep on top of their healthy habits,” she said.

Organisers have started discussing the event with local dance teachers, and a few local identities have already been dobbed in to be a Star in 2026.

The Cancer Council is also seeking the community’s support through sponsorship as well as people supporting the event on the night. The Courier is again partnering with the Stars of Narrabri and will inform the community as plans progress.