Bev McLachlan (also known as Bevlyn, not Beverley began her square dancing journey in 1973, encouraged by her parents who knew it would become a cherished lifelong activity. They were right—Bev hasn’t looked back since. She is a long-standing and dedicated member of the Suncoasters Square and Round Dance Clubs.
Her involvement at a national level is remarkable. Bev attended her first National Square Dance Convention in 1974 and has participated in every National Convention since, with the exception of 2001 (due to her daughter’s Year 12 Formal) and the pandemic-related cancellations. She began cueing in 1982 and has cued at every National Convention since then, again with the sole exception of 2001.
She has also attended many State Conventions across Australia.
Bev has been instrumental in organizing numerous National Conventions, serving on the committees for events held in Queensland (1982, 1990, 1999, 2016, 2025) and Northern Territory (2022 – postponed, and 2024). Was Convenor for the 1990, 1999 & 2016 National Conventions.
She has served in several leadership capacities, including Treasurer and Minutes Secretary on the ANSDC Board and as Treasurer for the Square Dance Society of Queensland Inc.
Her commitment to the Queensland Round Dance Association dates back to its inception, with many years of service on its Executive Committee. She is also a long-time member of the Australian Round Dance Association, having held the roles of Treasurer, Historian, Education Officer, President, and Secretary. Bev has been a member of Roundalab since 1982.
She has participated in various special events, including Round Dance Weekends, Minilab Conventions, and Australian Cuer/Caller Conferences. Bev attended the 1st and 2nd Southern Hemisphere Square and Round Dance Conventions in New Zealand, and had the honour of cueing at the second.
Together with her husband Nev, Bev helps run the Sunshine Coast Square Dance Centre, a purpose-built venue dedicated to Squares, Rounds, and Clogging. She is also deeply committed to marine turtle conservation, having spent over 46 years patrolling the beaches of Wreck Rock (north of Bundaberg) during Christmas holidays. In 2008, Bev and Nev were awarded the EPA Excellence Award in the Volunteering category for their work with the Environmental Protection Agency.
Life Patron, ANSDC Board Inc.
Life Member, Australian Round Dance Association
Life Member, Square Dance Society of Qld Inc.
Silver Spur Award – 23 November 1991, for outstanding service to Square Dancing in Queensland and Australia
Honour Roll, National Square Dance Society of Australia – May 2024
Bev McLachlan’s lifelong commitment to dancing, teaching, volunteering, and environmental advocacy exemplifies the spirit of leadership and community that square dancing inspires.
