2025 Whitsunday Mayor's Charity Ball

The Whitsunday Mayor’s Charity Ball dazzled on the weekend, with early estimates suggesting a remarkable $90,000 raised for local organisations dedicated to supporting the region.

Mayor Ry Collins opened the evening by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land, addressing dignitaries, and thanked sponsors.

The 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball, raised funds for three local businesses, BMA CQ Rescue, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre.

“While we’re here to enjoy great food, entertainment and good company, at the heart of this event is something bigger — giving back,” Mayor Ry Collins said.

“We’re proud to be supporting three incredible local charities:

“BMA CQ Rescue — delivering lifesaving aeromedical services across our vast region, from the islands to the inland. This community-funded service is our safety net in times of crisis, and we’re honoured to support their vital work.

“Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre — a lifeline for individuals and families, offering programs that address mental health, housing, emergency relief and youth services. Their impact in our communities is profound and far-reaching.

“Bowen Community Centre — a trusted support hub in the north, dedicated to building resilience through connection, services, and compassion. From food relief to community outreach, they are there when it matters most.

“Each of these organisations plays a critical role in the wellbeing of our region, and tonight, through your generosity, we have a chance to give back in a meaningful way.”

“So please dive into the auctions, buy some game tickets, bid big and bold because every dollar raised stays right here in the Whitsundays and goes directly to those who need it most.”

BMA CQ Rescue Spokesperson Tegan Philpott said they were so grateful that Mayor Ry Collins chose BMA CQ Rescue as a charity of choice.

“The work that we and the Bowen Community Centre and Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre do is very different, but at the core, we all have one thing in common. The people of the Whitsundays.

“They turn to each of us for different reasons, but we are there when they need us most. And we can only continue to do that through support like we get from the Whitsunday Mayors Ball.”

Executive Officer from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Rebecca Woods said they were extremely proud to be a recipient.
“We were very proud to be selected as one of the recipients for the Mayor's Charity Ball,” she said.

“It was very nice to be trusted with the proceeds and having the faith in the service that we provide.”

Executive Officer at Bowen Community Centre Stephanie Cora said the entire Bowen Community Centre were thrilled to also be named as a beneficiary of the Mayor’s Charity Ball.

“It was a heartfelt moment for the Bowen Community Centre team and everyone involved, knowing the funds raised would go directly into strengthening support for families, programs, and the very heart of the community,” she said.

“With smiles, perhaps even a few tears, and a great deal of gratitude floating through the room.”

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and his wife Melanie Collins.
Isaac Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Amanda Camm MP Member for Whitsunday, Mayor Ry Collins, and Gladstone Mayor and President of the Local Government Association of Queensland Matt Burnett.

Photos sourced: Facebook

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