Ten stars will hit the dancefloor - in a COVID-safe way - in March, for the event which has been reborn after it was forced to be cancelled in 2020 due to ongoing effects of the pandemic.

But in 2021, the stars are putting on their dancing shoes yet again, each with a goal of raising $5000 for the Ballarat Foundation.

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The stars this year are Alicia Wang Sheludko, Daniel Nestor, Paula Nicholson, Taite Radley, Tim Bone, Danielle Coltman, Kevin Vanderkley, Anita Godfrey, Rob Croucher and The Courier's own Rochelle Kirkham.

Each dancer has created their own fundraising campaign for the event, with thousands already pledged from across the community. Dance rehearsals are also well underway, led by dance teacher Shelley Ross.

The Courier is getting right behind the event and will profile all the contestants in the coming weeks leading up to the gala event which will be held on Saturday March 20.

A Ballarat Foundation spokesperson said the event "provides critical funds for the Ballarat Foundation to undertake important work breaking the cycles of disadvantage in our local community".

"In 2019, the Ballarat Foundation delivered $829,000 of community impact in the form of grants, programs and volunteering," the spokesperson said.

"In 2021,with community and business support, we are hoping to make that impact even greater.

"As a community foundation, we are reliant on the generous support of individuals and businesses to fund our operations. Events like Dancing with our Stars allows us to engage with our community in a fun way whilst also raising much needed funds."

Tickets for the gala event will go on sale two to three before the night. The sales will be conducted once up-to-date capacity and restriction numbers are known.

For more or to donate, visit dancing-with-our-stars.raisely.com