Mangoes were always in Ben Martin’s blood, so it was no surprise that Marto’s Mangoes has skyrocketed to be a big name in the industry.

However, it wasn’t always set in stone, with Ben pursuing an electrical apprenticeship after Year 12, before working in the mines for a few years, then returning to the small family mango farm, and growing the family business.

“My parents started the mango farm in 1990, and it started very small, with only 4,500 trees on the original 20 acres,” Ben explained.

Over the next 30 years, they have purchased a number of other properties and have expanded their operations.  

One particular block, a neighbour came to them and asked to buy them out.

“Dad and I said yes, and Mum said no, so we bought it and called it ‘Mum’s block’!”

Now with around 30,000 trees, the farm continues to grow, with every member of the family is helping with the business.

Being a family business that believes in supporting the local community, Marto’s Mangoes are actively involved in the community.

They sponsor a number of sporting clubs in Bowen and are the Gold sponsor of the Bowen Seagulls Junior Rugby League Club.  

Ben believes that you need to give back to the community that has given him and his family so much.

They are also actively involved in the industry as well.  

Ben is the Chairman of the Australian Mango Industry Association, vice-president of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, as well as a director of Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers.  

“All too often you see people sitting there and complaining about the industry, when the only way to see change is to get involved and actually do it,” said Ben when asked about his industry positions.  

“They take a lot of time and effort but can be really rewarding at times”.

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Ben, Ash-lei, Bernadette, and Gary Martin. Photo supplied

Kylie’s Family Dental has been servicing Bowen and the wider Whitsundays community since 2015, growing and evolving to become one of the best and most comprehensive dental practices, covering all dental services, including preventative, restorative and emergency dentistry.

At the helm of the practice is Dr Kylie del Solar, a born and bred Bowen local who returned to Bowen to establish the practice and raise her family.

Having studied at James Cook University for both nursing and dentistry, she is well versed in the medical world.

Initially studying nursing, Kylie returned to university to expand her skillset.

“I decided to return to university to become a dentist as I wanted to give patients the option to see a dentist who will make them feel safe and provide a reliable, honest and genuine service,” Dr Kylie explained.

Dr Cameron Born joined the practice in late 2021, after graduating James Cook University in 2019.

Also a Bowen local, Dr Cameron moved to Alice Springs to practice in rural communities before he made the move back to Bowen to be close to family.

“I always work with my patients to gain a complete understanding of their needs ensuring treatment is provided in a comfortable, relaxed and friendly environment,” Dr Cameron said.

Dr Renee Aitken joined Kylie’s Family Dental in November 2021, after spending two years in the Northern Territory, servicing the Alice Springs community in a private practice.

Developing a keen love of preventative and paediatric dentistry, Dr Renee brings with her a passion for achieving the best outcome for all of her patients.

Kylie’s Family Dental has a team of skilled, professional dentists, dental assistants, and reception staff to take care of you and your family dental needs in a relaxed and caring clinic.

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Dr Renee Aitken, Dr Cameron Born and Dr Kylie del Solar, delivering exceptional dental services, to the Bowen community. Photo supplied

Bowen Community Person Of The Year Recognised

Bowen Neighbourhood Centre Coordinator, Stephanie Cora, has been awarded the Bowen NAIDOC Community Person of the Year, during National NAIDOC Week.

Awarded for her dedicated and continuous work for the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, which she has been running for the past 14 years, Stephanie was surprised by the accolades.

“It is the greatest honour of the year,” Stephanie said.

A born and bred Bowen local, Stephanie began her time with the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre as an office manager, working her way up the ranks to become the Centre Coordinator.

She is a proud Traditional Owner and is always advocating for indigenous rights, social justice, and reconciliation, ensuring that the Bowen community is supported with every individual given the best opportunities on offer.

Receiving the award during the Bowen NAIDOC Week Celebrations, she is still unsure who nominated her.

“I have no idea who put my name forward; everyone I’ve asked says it wasn’t them!” she laughs.

The panel of judges said, “[Stephanie’s] selfless dedication to improving the lives of her community members makes her a deserving recipient of the 2023 Bowen NAIDOC Community Person of the Year award.

“Her unwavering commitment and passion continue to ignite hope, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the NAIDOC community, and leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

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As the warmth of summer begins to resettle on the region, look toward Arabon Seafood for premium, freshest seafood offering.

Especially for oyster fans, with Arabon Seafood being the exclusive supplier of Bowen Blacklip oysters, farmed and harvested by John Collison.

Farmer John Collision began his oyster farm nine years ago, starting the operation from scratch, using techniques he learned from his southern New South Wales oyster farms.

Arabon Seafood owner operators Claire and Terry Must have been the exclusive selling partners ever since and the prime retailer of the big homegrown Bowen Blacklip rock oysters.

Now a consistent product in the region, Arabon Seafood regularly see the oysters fly from their shop counter.

“John harvests 30 to 40 dozen oysters a day, and we would sell that much a day too!” said Claire.

Shucking the oysters in house, and selling them by the dozen, the oysters are as fresh as you can get, with John harvesting them early in the morning, and dropping them by Arabon as soon as possible.

“They are absolutely delicious,” Claire said.

Being able to be stored in the fridge for a few days, Claire still recommends eating them the same day as catch.

“Kilpatrick is still a great option as well, to add a bit of flavour, but raw from the shell is my way to go!”

Ensuring the best fresh, farm to table Blacklip oysters, Arabon Seafood is keeping Bowen and the Whitsundays well stocked, perfect for summer.

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Mackay is celebrating a remarkable milestone in multiculturalism as 84 individuals from 22 different countries proudly became Australian citizens at a special ceremony held at the MECC earlier this week. This event marks a significant achievement for the region, as it signifies that since 2013, a total of 100 unique countries have been represented among those who have chosen to make Mackay their permanent home with Australian citizenship.

Mayor Greg Williamson and council members were on hand to extend their warm congratulations and welcome the new Aussie citizens into the Mackay community. The occasion was a testament to the rich diversity and unity that characterises Mackay, highlighting the city's commitment to embracing people from all corners of the globe. These new citizens now proudly call Australia home, adding their unique cultural backgrounds to the tapestry of this thriving region.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

84 individuals from 22 different countries proudly became Australian citizens earlier this week. Since 2013, 100 countries have now been represented at citizenship ceremonies. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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In a heart-wrenching development, Matthew Ireland, convicted of the tragic death of 18-month-old Hemi Les Goodwin-Burke, is poised to be released from prison on September 22, 2023, without any restrictions or oversight, leaving the victim's family devastated and outraged.

The harrowing ordeal began when Hemi's life support was tragically turned off by his father in March 2015, leading to the initial charges of murder and torture against Mr Ireland. The court heard that Mr Ireland was babysitting Hemi while his mother was in Brisbane undergoing medical treatment. The toddler's body was covered in 78 bruises from being beaten over a two-hour period, it was alleged in court. However, these charges were later downgraded to manslaughter in March 2017, echoing a concerning trend in child homicide cases across Queensland.

Despite the gravity of the crime, Ireland received a sentence of a mere 8 ½ years, with eligibility for parole after serving just four years. Although his 2019 parole plea was denied, he is now slated for release.

Hemi’s Nana, Lyn Burke, said while Mr Ireland is able to be set free, their family is still serving a life sentence.

“On 22nd September, Mr Ireland will be set free with no restrictions, no follow up, no nothing. As Hemi’s nanna I will be in the carpark at the Wacol prison where he will be collected from,” she said.

“I do not wish to cause a scene, I want him to know by only my presence that Hemi’s family is still watching and still living our life sentence.”

The day after Mr Ireland is due to be released, on September 23, Hemi would have celebrated his 10th birthday, a stark reminder of the stolen years and justice delayed.

This unsettling case of Hemi is not an isolated incident. Recent reports have unearthed alarming statistics about child murders in Queensland. In the past 12 years, 62 innocent children aged 0-17 have lost their lives—the highest fatality rate among Australian states.

The criminal justice system's response to these heinous crimes has raised significant concerns. Despite legislative amendments in 2019 intended to impose more stringent sentences for child killers, several perpetrators have received shockingly lenient prison terms. These include individuals responsible for the deaths of children like Lily Cataldo (7 weeks old, 8 years), Matthew Baxter (6 weeks old, 9 years), Kyhesha-Lee Joughin (3 years old, 9 years), Tyrell Cobb (4 years old, 9 years), Kye Randall (10 weeks old, 9 years), Paige Humphries (31 days old, 9 years), and Lennox Smith (4 months old, 9 years).

“All of these killers had their charges downgraded from murder to manslaughter, any other charges that were there initially seem to have vanished,” Ms Burke said.

“Mr Potts (Former president of the Queensland Law Society, Bill Potts) said there are ‘very real practical concerns’ about the provision of reckless indifference, and it was now demonstrating ‘the law itself is ineffective’.”

Such cases highlight the urgent need for a critical re-evaluation of the legal framework governing child homicide cases. Families left grappling with grief and despair, like Hemi's, demand answers as those responsible for their children's deaths walk free with minimal consequences.

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Hemi Goodwin-Burke was killed in March 2015 by his babysitter Matthew Ireland. Photo supplied

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Soroptimist International Mackay club hosted over 70 guests for high tea at Ocean International, Saturday 12th August. The club’s main aim is to educate, empower and enable women and girls.

Service Leader of Orange Sky Laundry, Lisa Jamison, shared with guests at the event details of how they can help to support the vulnerable women and children of Mackay.

Safe Sleep Mackay have been fundraising to secure a pink Sleepbus for our region, as well as one in Sarina. This will provide up to 20 beds each night for women and children who are sleeping rough.

Soroptimist International made a contribution of $3000 to the cause after their High Tea fundraiser.

Soroptimist International stated, “Congratulations Mackay community, for raising awareness and taking steps to reduce homelessness.”

Sleep Safe Mackay thanks the women’s organisation and attendees of the event for their tremendous fundraising efforts and community spirit.

To find out more about the Safe Sleep Bus Project, visit www.sleepbus.org.

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Soroptimist International raise $3000 for Sleep Safe Mackay rough-sleeping initiative

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As we bid adieu to one of our own, Sam Gillespie, it's a bittersweet moment for the Mackay Life team. Sam's journey with us began in early 2022, and from the get-go, it was evident that he was destined for a vibrant future in journalism.

His fervour for music and entertainment was truly infectious. Sam was never one to shy away from the pulsating rhythms of a mosh pit at a festival, and his enthusiasm for music spilled over into his work. He became the driving force behind our music and entertainment coverage, sharing his passion with our readers.

But Sam's involvement in the local media scene didn't stop there. He eagerly volunteered at 4CRM Mackay Community Radio, hosting the popular "Prekend" show every Thursday at 8 pm. Emerging artists quickly gravitated toward him, seizing the opportunity for double exposure in both our community newspaper and Sam's radio program.

A musician himself, Sam's talent behind the drum kit added yet another layer to his multifaceted personality. His band recently celebrated their debut performance at the Red Dog Brewery, marking a milestone in his musical journey.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Sam's eagerness to explore Mackay's rich indigenous culture and immerse himself in nature was truly admirable. Camping and venturing into the vast wilderness of our region became his passion.

As we bid farewell to Sam in Mackay, it's important to remember that this is not a final farewell. Sam is embarking on an exciting new chapter as the head journalist for our upcoming newspaper, Burdekin Life. With Rachael Smith and I as co-managing editors, we have no doubt that Sam will become an integral part of the Burdekin community, just as he did here in Mackay a year and a half ago.

Mackay will undoubtedly miss Sam's vibrant presence, but we are eager to watch him continue to flourish in the Burdekin. Farewell, Sam, and here's to the next thrilling chapter in your journalistic journey!

Amanda

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Campaigners of Walk for Yes 2023 assembled at Bluewater Quay on Sunday, September 17 to share stories of unity and reconciliation, before heading off for a walk across Forgan Bridge to show their support of the ‘Yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum.

Mackay for Yes is a growing group of volunteers aiming to achieve a ‘Yes’ vote to support and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the Australian Constitution, which will be voted for on October 14.

Walk for Yes 2023 has received interest Australia-wide, with the main goal of the events being to encourage the public to vote and to garner a wider audience of supporters for the ‘Yes’ option.

In a matter of weeks, the nation will head to the polls, with tensions rising between voters.

The consensus from the ‘No’ party is that there is inadequate information about what ‘the voice’ will achieve, and that it will cause further division and racism in Australia.

The 'No' campaign is ‘Australians for Unity.’ This campaign is led by Shadow Indigenous Australians Minister Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Nyunggai Warren Mundine. In May 2023, Price and Mundine merged their respective ‘No’ campaigns, ‘Fair Australia’ and ‘Recognise a Better Way.’

Arguments for the 'No' vote include that the Voice won’t deliver meaningful change for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, or that Sovereignty and Treaty should be prioritised ahead of a Voice to Parliament.

At Mackay’s ‘Yes’ walk, a resident of Mackay and speaker, Rev. Keith McCollim, said he wants to see a positive change brought forward within his lifetime.

Keith acknowledges his privilege and lack of awareness in his early years about First Nations people and their rich cultural connection to Australia.

“What did we learn about the first nations people when we were young?

“Absolutely nothing. Not a thing was taught to us in school.”

Keith said, “If not now, when will it ever be?

“I want to see it in my lifetime, now is the time. I encourage each of you to do what you can to talk to people, dispel the fear and doubt to do with the Yes vote.”

Yes23 volunteer Peter McCallum said, “I’m involved in this campaign to see hope that my children can be proud of what is achieved in this country as a very progressive nation, and I think we are.”

“Although there are some who have self-interest at heart and want to fear and doubt, we are starting to see people recognising those feelings, and want to find out more about why [voting] ‘Yes’ is a good thing to do.

“I think that in the next four weeks, if we are all involved in this campaign, with tens of thousands of Australians supporting, we will shift those views under the weight of the ‘No’ campaign.”

To find out more information about Yes23’s campaign efforts, visit their website at yes23.com.au. For more information on the referendum, visit voice.gov.au.

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Michelle McKenzie, Brooke McReynolds, Mary Ann Baillie, Damien Walls, Kay Walls and Joy Walls. Photo credit: Sinead Porter

Margaret Doranti and Linda Campbell

Cath Hore and Ella Hore

Helen Taylor, Andrea Orr and Alexis Brodie

South Sea Islander speakers, Zelda Quakawoot and Seini Willett

Peter McCallum holding up banner to encourage volunteers

Parade of campaigners walking across Forgan Bridge

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Strap on your running shoes, because 21Degrees South Multisport Association is about to blaze a trail through the Mackay region! Get ready to sprint into action with orienteering, conquer thrilling adventure races, and navigate the exhilarating world of MapRuns.

Increasing inclusion in real life skills is important, with offerings of navigating and team building skills, the association encourages competition and trying out something new.

21DSMA has hosted a number of different events including orienteering short courses, regular MapRuns as well as assisting at major events like Zach Mach adventure race and Kids Triathlon events.

If you’re looking for some light exercise and a family-friendly day out, consider joining MapRun. The events last 40 minutes and caters to all physical abilities - set your own pace, with full instructions provided.

21DSMA representative Kirsty Mawer explains, “Think of [the event] like Pokémon hunting; navigate the streets to collect points. Only thing is, the map you are given doesn’t have street names, so you need to pay attention.”

These MapRun events are ideal for getting outdoors, meeting new people and gaining new skills.  

Kirsty states, “The feedback we get from our newcomers is how much fun they had, despite being a little nervous.

“It is great to hear the excitement of participants when they finish, having found all the checkpoints.”

You can join the fun this Saturday, with MapRun taking place at Quota Park, Binnington Esplanade at 3:00 PM.

With community support, the association looks forward to bringing more exciting multisport activities to the Mackay region.

Come along and join the fun! To find out more information or keep up with events, visit: facebook.com/21degreessouth.

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MapRun attendees on their navigation quest.

Winners are grinners - MapRun participants reach the finish line.

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A 71-year-old Bakers Creek man has passed away following a two vehicle crash in Yalboroo, on Saturday September 16.

Police said in a statement that the Bakers Creek man was travelling north on the Bruce Highway, on his motorbike, when at approximately 11.45am, a blue Toyota Corolla travelling in the opposite direction turned in front of him.

The Toyota was attempting to turn onto Cathu O’Connell River Road, and the driver and sole occupant, a 28-year-old New South Wales man, was not physically injured.

The Bakers Creek man was transported to hospital, however, was pronounced deceased during the transport.

The New South Wales man is assisting police, and the investigation is ongoing.

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An epic new campaign launched by Mackay Regional Council is destined to trigger a wave of pirate costumes and pirate roars across the region.

The campaign is a first for council and will encourage residents to explore their own backyard by completing a treasure trail.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the region has a treasure trove of hidden gems to discover and many locals have barely scratched the surface.

“We’re taking our existing Discover Mackay campaign to uncharted territory, with a treasure trail setting sail across the Mackay region, from north to south and east to west,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The pirate-themed campaign will include 10 mystery locations to be discovered, by solving a series of riddles and clues on the council website,” he said.

“We’re encouraging residents to have a bit of fun, dress up in costume and explore the trail from Saturday, September 23, to Sunday, October 8.

“Each treasure trail location will have a large poster or corflute on display and treasure hunters need to find the sign, scan the QR code and complete any challenges that pop up on each online form.

“Challenges could include taking a photo or video of something, or someone, at the location; answering a trivia question or finding something special.”

Harvey Norman Mackay Proprietor Adam Patuwairua said he was excited to be part of the new campaign.

“We love supporting the local community and what better way than supporting a promotion that gets people out and about to explore the local area,” Mr Patuwairua said.

“Harvey Norman is proud to provide the major prize for the first person or team to complete the whole trail, plus three other digital cameras as an incentive for the community to hit the trail,” he said.

The first-place winner will receive a Canon EOS R100 camera with a single lens kit and two Pixbee PixPlay kid’s cameras, second place will receive a $500 Visa gift card and third place a $350 Sarina Sugar Shed hamper and MECC double pass.

The first 50 people to finish will also receive a Discover Mackay picnic blanket and the best dressed team will score a $200 gift card.

Anyone who completes the trail will go in the draw to win a $300 Sarina Sugar Shed hamper of goodies, including a MECC double pass.

Small rocks painted with a council logo will also be hidden at six of the ten locations.

Anyone who finds one of the rocks and hands it in will instantly win a $50 gift card.

To find out more, or to register for council’s treasure trail, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/trail.

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Mayor Greg Williamson and Harvey Norman Mackay Proprietor Adam Patuwairua at the Treasure Trail media launch

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Mackay's busiest bus stops at Caneland Central shopping centre are moving, and about to undergo a transformation, promising improved comfort and safety for customers. The State Government's $769 million, four-year transport and roads plan for Mackay Whitsunday is backing this significant upgrade, which the government says ensures job security for Queenslanders.

Local contractor Woollam Constructions has been awarded the tender for stage two of the Caneland bus station, with construction set to commence in September. This development is part of a broader effort to enhance the region's transportation infrastructure.

Stage one, completed in February, focused on improving accessibility with a signalised crossing on Mangrove Road, landscaping works, and a bus laydown area. Now, stage two will bring about a modern 60-meter bus station on Mangrove Road. The new station will provide weather protection, additional seating, and enhanced lighting and visibility for customer safety.

Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert expressed her satisfaction with the project's progress, saying, "We know how important these bus stops are for locals, which is why it’s so good to see we’re a step closer to getting these upgrades done.

“The new location and improved station will make it safer and easier than ever before to use our buses – which is a big win for the Mackay community."

She added, "The station structure will be enclosed for weather protection, more seating, and improved lighting and visibility for customer safety. This upgrade forms part of the Palaszczuk Labor Government’s $769 million, four-year transport and roads plan for Mackay Whitsunday, supporting good, secure jobs for Queenslanders.

“We’re delivering better services all over the state, helping Queenslanders get home sooner and safer, and spend more time enjoying our great lifestyle."

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson highlighted the improved facilities, saying, "The new station would modernise our local facilities.

“This station has been designed to meet accessibility standards and provide people using mobility aids and prams with easier access to and from the bus."

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Artist impression of the new bus stop at Caneland Central shopping centre

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In a ceremony held at the Banksia Scout Den on Fernleigh Avenue, Andergrove, Ayva Grant, a dedicated member of the Banksia Cub Scout group, received the highly regarded Grey Wolf Award on the evening of September 7, 2023.

The Grey Wolf Award is the highest honour achievable in the Cub Scout Section, representing a significant milestone in a Cub Scout's journey. To attain this prestigious badge, Ayva undertook a series of challenging and educational tasks.

Her journey encompassed active participation in nine Cub Scout Activities, including leading seven of them. Ayva also demonstrated her outdoor prowess by engaging in five nights of camping and completing two hikes, each lasting a minimum of six hours. She acquired essential survival skills such as knot-tying, basic first aid, shelter building, fire-starting, and navigation.

In addition to these outdoor adventures, Ayva pursued six personal special interest activities, participated in a Cub Scout Leadership Course, and completed an exhilarating four-hour adventurous journey. One of her hikes was an eight-hour city walk throughout the streets and pathways of Mackay, while her adventurous journey took her on a bike hike from the Port of Mackay to the Botanical Gardens.

Throughout her time in the Cub Scout Section, Ayva eagerly embraced adventurous activities such as abseiling, archery, paddling, water sports, camps, and hikes. She thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie and learning experiences around the campfire, which included fire building, campsite cooking, games, and captivating storytelling.

The ceremony, presided over by Banksia Scout Dylan Harrison, featured Ayva's parents, Nathan Grant and Cub Scout Leader Maighan Grant, who proudly presented her with the Grey Wolf Award. Adventurous Activities Leader Brendan Ross awarded her the GWA Certificate, and Cub Scout Leader Sarah Harrison presented her with a special gift from the Banksia Group.

The evening concluded with the presentation of badges earned by the Cub Scouts during this term, followed by an energetic game and a memorable closing parade. Ayva's achievement in earning the Grey Wolf Award is a testament to her dedication to Cub Scouts, making her a true inspiration to her fellow Scouts. Congratulations, Ayva!

Contributed by Mary Wallace

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Ayva Grant, with her parents Nathan and Maighan Grant presenting her with the Grey Wolf Award

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A prominent Mackay charity organisation, Broken Ballerina Inc. are hosting their ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful’ Ball on Saturday October 7 to raise funds for victims of domestic violence.

The ball will be held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club, event goers will experience a night of fun and fancy dress including a charity auction and local entertainment, all for a great cause.

Break out your best black, white and pink spring cocktail attire for a night of vibrancy and amusement.

Broken Ballerina was formed with an important mission in mind – to make a difference in the lives of victims of domestic violence and disadvantaged people in our society.

Broken Ballerina can help provide referral services and offer support in filing police reports, domestic violence orders and attending court.  

The ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful’ Ball will have Tegan Philpott set to MC the event, with special guest speakers and a performance by local band, Mango Junction.

A smorgasbord menu and chocolate dessert bar by The Chocolate Leaf will be on the cards for lucky attendees.

If you love supercars, you won’t want to miss out on the auction. Items up for grabs will include a limited-edition Seiko watch, signed by the V8 Supercar drivers and a Holden rim signed by Brad Jones, which was part of the very last race of a Holden vehicle.

Raffle prizes will include gift cards, gift baskets, a $1000 voucher from Local Eyes Optometrist and two nights' accommodation in a deluxe room at Pullman & Mercure Brisbane King George Square, included is a breakfast for two and a $120 food and beverage credit at Goldfinch Restaurant.

Other fun auction and raffle items will be disclosed on the night.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive event, with the option to support an outstanding not-for-profit charity that is constantly giving back to our local community.

Mackay and Whitsunday locals' generosity is paramount to the success of Broken Ballerina and enables the continuation of their services - help to be a part of the solution.

Tickets are available from mackaytickets.com.au, or alternatively you can visit brokenballerina-inc.com.au for more information. Donations are tax deductible.

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