Dance is Lukah Eveleigh's life.
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The Bolwarra Heights teen has already clocked up 13 years worth of experience on the dance floor and after a stellar performance at the World Championships of Performing Arts her future is gleaming with possibilities.
Lukah represented Australia at the prestigious championships in America in July and earned five medals - one for every dance she performed.
She won gold for her tap routine, two silvers - one for her contemporary performance and one for her lyrical routine, and two bronze medals - one for jazz and one for musical theatre.
She was among more than 850 competitors from more than 45 countries.
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The 16-year-old auditioned for the chance to represent Australia and couldn't believe it when she was told she had been successful.
Maitland and East Maitland businesses chipped in with financial support and made it possible for her to travel to California to participate. Maitland City Council also gave her a grant.
"I auditioned to just see what would happen. When mum told me we were going to America I thought 'surely we're not'. It was very surreal until I got to the airport. I didn't expect any medals because there were so many junior competitors in my category. It was very special to win them.
Dance is my home away from home. I love doing it and can't get enough of it. I hope to become a teacher and a choreographer and I hope to be a back up dancer. I think I can do anything if I put my mind to it. I have a lot of solos that I do, and a lot of group dances, so I'm very good at picking up and holding onto choreography.
Her tap teacher Pam Cramp said Lukah's success was a reflection of her hard work and dedication.
"It is a very big deal and we are very proud she has brought the gold home. She started with me when she was 9," she said.
"To win gold is amazing, she put in a lot of hours and made a big commitment to it. It's a combination of good teaching, a parent who wants their kid to succeed and a kid who puts in the hard work.
"In a lifetime you only have a few kids that come through like that. Lukah will succeed because of her attitude. It's nice to be able to pass your expertise onto someone like her, she really takes it all in."
"There are so many people who helped to make this possible and we are so thankful to everyone who supported her," Lukah's mother Michelle added.
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