AUSTRALIA—About 70 members of the Brisbane congregation gathered on the evening of Nov. 18, 2017, for the congregation’s country western entertainment night and dance. The idea was inspired by a similar event held earlier in the year by the Sydney congregation.

The evening began with a potluck dinner following services. Tables were decorated with sunflowers in mason jar vases and red and blue tablecloths. In the corner of the room was a country-themed display with sugar-cane bales, an artificial cactus, lanterns, horse-riding gear, and bandana bunting. A corner photo booth featured a painted “face cut-out” photo board and a “Wanted: For Having Too Much Fun” frame.

Members wore flannel, denim and cowboy hats. The Lorenz family of eight, wore “cowboys and Indians” attire.

Belinda Lorenz said her children were eager to dress as Indians and that putting together the costumes took “vigorous planning, followed by several nights at the $2 shop.”

After the meal, master of ceremonies Kaleb Robson introduced the entertainment acts, which included a guitar duet, vocal and group solos, piano solos, and a flute quartet.

Danielle Underwood, who sang a duet with Keesha Jarina, said, “I was amazed at the many hidden talents of the brethren that the entertainment acts displayed” and said the evening “inspired me to want to pursue my talents further.”

One of the humorous performances of the night, in addition to Robson’s jokes, was when member Callum Wood performed the Australian country song, “I’ve Been Everywhere,” accompanied by guitarist Mark Constantine. The lyrics are known for their rapid listing of Australian destinations. “I chose the song because it’s a fun one and usually gets a few laughs,” Wood said. “It’s a real tongue-twister. It took me a couple weeks to memorize—mainly on the drive to and from work.”

The event also included an Irish dance performance to the country song “Cotton-Eyed Joe” by several Brisbane youths: Micah, Jacob and Mikayla, who belong to the same Irish dance school.

After the entertainment acts, the hall was cleared, chairs were moved to the sides, and the dance began, featuring an entirely country playlist. Special dances, including the limbo and freeze dances, kept members out on the dance floor until the last song.