Swinging with the Stars contestants put their best foot forward for a good cause on Saturday night.

The major event is the key annual fundraiser for the Stand Like Stone Foundation, which raised just over $110,000 this year and chief executive Roger Babolka was thrilled with the result.

“We cannot thank our community enough for getting behind the Stars and this premier event,” Mr Babolka said.

“You have got to tip your hat to these people who put their hand up to do this, these eight people who volunteered their services and said they would be a part of it.

“The money raised from the night, and of course the fundraising activities held by the Stars over the last few months, assists the foundation in providing a critical range of community support across the region.

“It comes back to us and gives us a chance to do more, which is our goal at the end of the day.”

Kellie Nobes was crowned the Swinging with the Stars winner for 2023 with her dance partner Jayden Green, followed closely by Kyle Tipene with his dance partner Jacinta Cooper.

Chicago Smith received the People’s Choice Award for raising the most money, a grand total of $23,146 for her local community through the Penola/Coonawarra Wellbeing Sub Fund.

The eight local Stars performed in front of a crowd of more than 570 people, which Mr Babolka said was likely the second highest attendance number in the 15 years since the event began.

The Stars worked hard to prepare for the event, dedicating many hours over the past three months to learn three dance routines, guided by Kim Cella and Jazmyn Bowd from Hype Dance, along with hosting fundraisers.

“The Stars all together raised over $84,000 over the last three months; all those eight Stars were out there doing their bit for the last three months as well as learning how to dance,” Mr Babolka said.

“For the past three months they have been giving it their all.

“The way they performed on the night was just spectacular, to the point where we got down to the top four and the judges decided they needed to get down to two from there and then get those two finalists in for another dance, so it was so tight in terms of the performances by all eight.”

Mr Babolka acknowledged the incredible support the event received from the community and said several people had already expressed interest in being a Star next year.

“The support this event receives from a range of local businesses and individuals year after year is unbelievable and goes a long way in making the whole night the success it’s always been,” he said.