Bernard Francis was born in the United Kingdom in May 1934. As a teenager, he discovered the joy of dancing and met the love of his life, Valerie, at classes that included Square Dancing. At just 14 and 15 years old, they began a partnership that would last a lifetime. The couple married in 1955, and in 1967, with their daughter Carolyn and son Richard, migrated to Australia, settling in Western Australia.

Although Square Dancing faded from their lives during their later teens, it was Valerie and Carolyn who reintroduced Bernard to the activity that would become central to his community life. Their involvement began when Julie Southern (sister of Steve Turner) started The Silver Knights Square Dance Club in Riverton. The club soon became incorporated, setting an example for others and offering members the protection of formal recognition.

At Silver Knights, Bernard was humorously “elected, pushed, shoved, coerced” into the role of Vice President—a lighthearted beginning to what became a long and dedicated career in Square Dance administration. His leadership journey continued in 1982 when a friend from Silver Knights began calling and formed The Cloverleaf Square Dance Club (1982) Inc.

Recovering in hospital at the time of the club’s first meeting, Bernard was greeted bedside by members with the words: “Congratulations Mr. President.” From that moment, he represented Cloverleaf on the Square Dance Society of Western Australia Inc., stepping into the often challenging world of Square Dance politics.

Cloverleaf worked closely with its sister club, Western Squares, and as numbers dwindled, the two clubs amalgamated to form Cloverwest. Bernard’s leadership extended further when Jack Hayward, President of Western Squares, persuaded him to serve as Vice President during Jack’s bid for the Society presidency. When Jack resigned suddenly during a heated meeting, Bernard was left to steady the ship, a task he undertook with resilience and commitment.

He went on to serve as President of the National Square Dance Society for approximately 10 years and was honoured as a Life Member of the Western Australia Square Dance Society in 1999, presented at the State Convention in Esperance.

This marked the beginning of Bernard’s national career in Square Dancing. It was, in his words, one of the most enjoyable periods of his life. Alongside Valerie, he made countless friends and attended conventions across Australia and New Zealand, building bonds that enriched both their lives and the wider Square Dance community.

Bernard’s journey reflects not only his dedication to Square Dancing but also his warmth, humour, and willingness to serve. From being “coerced” into office to guiding clubs through change, he embodied the spirit of community and camaraderie that lies at the heart of Square Dancing. His story is a testament to the joy of dance, the strength of partnership, and the enduring friendships forged along the way.

Recreated from information provided by Bernard H Francis on 30-11-2025