Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Huge crowds turned out for the hotly anticipated Dancing with Heart 2026 last weekend, and they were not disappointed.
Loved ones, colleagues and sponsors watched on proudly as participants showed off their hard work, and sparked joy across the audience, dancing routines inspired by iconic performances, from Flashdance to Burlesque.
The amateur dancers became stars of the stage as they represented companies across Mackay, with contributors raising over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, a local organisation dedicated to supporting patients tackling difficult health journeys at Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
Whopping $90,000 Raised at Dancing with Heart
On Friday 20th March, audiences at the MECC were wowed by Dancing with Heart’s fundraising showcase, where local businesspeople laced up their dancing shoes and gave the performance of a lifetime.
The dancers stepped and shimmied out of their comfort zones, hitting the stage to vie for the winning spot with routines developed with choreographer Dolly Louw and the talented dancers from Fame Talent School.
The event raised over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, an amazing achievement made possible by the dancers, sponsors and attendees.
James Bailey from Wallace & Wallace took home the title of overall winner with an energetic routine set to Huey Lewis & The News’ Hip to Be Square. He also swept the award for highest fundraiser, raising a whopping $20,000 just on his own.
The people’s choice winner was Michael Kerr from Haymans Electrical, with an inspiring routine to Believe by Cher. All performances were exceptional, with the event cementing itself as a highlight of the Mackay community calendar.
1 - Michael Kerr representing Hayman Electrical.
2- The seasoned pros backing the amateur dancers.
3 – Michea Kerr, Dirk Nuegebauer & James Bailey.
4 – Dancers from Mackay Fame Talent School provided amazing support.
5 –Chelsea Byrne, Tégan McGovern, Dolly Louw, Sharon Johnston, Janine Jacobson.
6 - Janine Jacobson from Channel 7.
7 - Sharon Johnston from DBCT.
8- Winner James Bailey surrounded by supporters
9 – Dirk Nuegebauer cheered on by the crowd.
10 – James Bailey’s winning performance. Photo source: Facebook
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