With love that is.

“Women love men who can dance,” the first lady of Nelson Bay Rock ‘N’ Roll Club Diana Barnard said.

“We could write a book about the couples who have met and fallen in love through our group.”

There are few who would disagree, with more than 500 people about to descend on Nelson Bay for the 17^th annual Rock ‘N’ Roll Festival on October 13-15.

“Dancing leads to romancing,” the dance club’s president Keith Barnard said.

“It keeps you young, I don’t feel 75.”

The event is based at Wests Nelson Bay in the auditorium.

The hot rod show won’t return this year but there will be a greater emphasis on beginner tuition.

Sydney’s Swing Cats will introduce newbies to some easy-to-learn steps on the Saturday from 3pm.

This element also introduces a younger crowd busting the myth this event’s only for the oldies.

The rise of pin-up fashion hasn’t hurt either.

“We encourage it,” Mr Barnard said.

“The dress-up certainly adds to the atmosphere. The group from Sydney are only in their 20s.”

The event is free across the three days, if people want to take part or simply watch. But be warned.

“If there’s a song that will get everyone on the dance floor it’s Shake, Rattle and Roll,” Mr Barnard said.

The event sponsored by Wests Nelson Bay Diggers is supported by three bands.

Doors open from 6pm Friday, October 13 with Midnight Drifters on from 8pm.

On the Saturday doors open 6pm with Blue Suede Boppers on stage from 8pm.

On the Sunday doors open noon with Jake Rattle and Roll on stage from 1pm.