Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
BMA CQ Rescue receiving the charity cheque from Mayor Ry Collins. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council
A night of fun and generosity has delivered an impactful result for the Whitsundays, with the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball raising an impressive $44,000 for BMA CQ Rescue.
Mayor Ry Collins officially handed over the cheque this week, a culmination of support from the local sponsors, businesses, donors and community members who rallied behind the annual event.
“When something goes seriously wrong, having your service available to our community makes an enormous difference to people when they are at their most vulnerable,” Mayor Collins said.
“It was a great night for the community, but this is ultimately about supporting a service that is there for us when we need it most.
The Whispers of the West themed evening raised an outstanding $44,000, bringing the council’s total amount raised for BMA CQ Rescue since 2016 to $350,000. For the 24/7 community funded aeromedical and rescue services based in Mackay, this money goes a long way to keep the blades chopping.
“We're really grateful for the money that they've raised, it's amazing support in a lovely area and from lovely people,” said BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Krowley.
“Our operational cost per year is $17.5 million and covers a lot of ground, so the support from the communities and the regions is second to none.”
Mayor Collins took the opportunity to thank the sponsors of the event for helping make the evening, and donation, possible.
“A huge thank you to our sponsors, to everyone who donated and bought a ticket, and to everyone who helped make the ball happen,” Mayor Collins said.
“We had another fantastic ball this year. The support from our local sponsors, businesses and everyone who came along was tremendously important.”
Council is already looking ahead to the 2027 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with sponsorship opportunities now open for businesses interested in helping make next year’s event another memorable night for the community.
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