Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Hospitality students from Mackay North State High School gained practical event experience while helping Mantra Mackay deliver the 2026 Flagon & Dragon charity function. Photo supplied by North Mackay State High School
One of Mackay’s most distinctive charity events has passed a major milestone, with Flagon & Dragon now raising more than $2.3 million for local children and families.
The invitation-only 2026 Flagon & Dragon raised $300,000 when Mackay’s business community gathered at Mantra Mackay on Friday, July 31st.
First held at The Oriental restaurant more than three decades ago, the biennial event combines fun and fundraising to support sick Mackay children and their families.
Guests entered an elaborate China-themed setting featuring lanterns and a large traditional dragon, while Certificate II in Hospitality students from Mackay North State High School and Mackay Northern Beaches State High School worked alongside Mantra staff to deliver the two-course function.
The unpaid placement helped students fulfil course requirements while gaining practical experience in food and beverage service, event preparation, set-up and pack-down.
Mantra Functions Supervisor Zoe Livermore said the students had grown significantly in confidence and capability from their first placements to now, becoming more independent and willing to take initiative.
“They get great reviews from the guests as well,” Ms Livermore said.
North High students will continue building their experience in coming weeks, including at the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Awards Gala and a major fundraiser for the Trudy Crowley Foundation, both hosted at Mantra.
Flagon & Dragon Committee Chair Scott Jamieson thanked long-time sponsor McDonald’s Mackay, the full sponsor lineup, Mackay’s business community, the volunteer committee and attendees for making the event “truly special”.
“The reason so many are so willing to give generously is because Flagon & Dragon is more than just an event,” Mr Jamieson said.
“All profits go towards providing crucial equipment to Mackay children in need. Our aim is to provide support for local families when they are going through a tough time, so the family can stay here in Mackay to get the treatment and care they need.”
More information and the full sponsor list are available at flagonanddragon.com.au.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
.jpg)
