A Night Of Giving

Mackay’s Premier Mayor’s Charity Ball Returns In 2026

Excitement is already building across the region as planning officially gets underway for the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with organisers promising an even bigger and better event following last year’s outstanding success.

The 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball was held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday, May 10, delivering a glamorous red-carpet evening that brought together local businesses, community leaders and supporters for a collective cause.

The event raised more than $50,000, with funds presented to Grapevine Group and The Salvation Army at a special sponsors’ morning tea on May 28, 2025.

A number of sponsors have already recommitted to the event, with Fergus Builders, Daly Bay and BMA confirmed as Platinum Sponsors. Mickala Group has also come on board as a new Platinum sponsor for 2026.

Organisers also acknowledged the many returning sponsors who have once again thrown their support behind the Ball including Pentacon, CQ Soil Testing, North Queensland Bulk Ports, Seven News Mackay, Tropical Exposure, Hit Mackay and Triple M, Signarama and Twilight Events.

Building on last year’s tour of The Neighbourhood Hub on George Street in November, the Mayor, event committee and sponsors recently gathered to gain valuable insight into the important work being delivered by staff and volunteers on the ground. The visit also marked the official announcement of the two beneficiary charities for the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball.

The Neighbourhood Community Hub’s Second Bite Program was revealed as a new charity partner, while The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service will return for its second year, continuing the Ball’s two-year charity support model.

The Mayor’s Charity Ball has raised more than $1 million since its inception and is on track for another successful event in 2026.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Ball is “one of the biggest community fundraisers we run from a council perspective, and we’ve always delivered fantastic funding to really worthy community causes.

“The two charities we’re supporting at the moment are incredibly deserving.”

He said the goal for 2026 was to lift the event to an even higher level.

“We’re aiming to deliver the biggest and best Mayor’s Charity Ball this year, and we can’t do it without media partners like you,” he said, with Life Publishing Group proudly coming on board as the event’s exclusive print media partner for 2026.

It’s safe to say the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball is shaping up to be another unforgettable night that blends entertainment, generosity and community impact, all under the one roof of the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre.

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities, or wishing to donate auction prizes or raffle items, can email communications@mackay.qld.gov.au for further information.

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Planning is underway for Mackay’s 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball, promising a bigger and better night of giving for the community. Photo supplied

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