ICONIC MACKAY Celebrated At Mayor’s Charity Ball

Mackay's social calendar sparkled with generosity and community spirit as the Mackay Mayor's Charity Ball unfolded at the MECC last Saturday evening. The event, a cornerstone of philanthropy in the region, saw more than 400 guests gather in support of two vital local charities: Grapevine Group, dedicated to suicide prevention across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions, and the Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP).
This year’s Ball was all about celebrating Iconic Mackay – its features, history, events, and people. A highlight of the night came early in the form of a surprise performance by none other than Mackay's own musical luminary, Graeme Connors. As the audience swayed to the melodies of Connors' timeless tunes, the theme of celebrating iconic Mackay was brought to life with every chord, enhanced by Connors walking along a bright blue centrepiece to mimic Mackay’s Pioneer River.

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The Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball is the night of nights on the region’s social calendar, raising much-needed funds to support local charities. L-R: Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Nathenea Macrae, Cr Heath Paton, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Mackay Life Editor Amanda Wright, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography

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Mackay Mayor's Charity Ball Lights Up The Night

In keeping with the spirit of celebration and giving back, funds raised throughout the evening were destined to make a tangible difference in the community. Mayor Williamson shared that the event, which has raised over $1 million since its inception, aimed to support two deserving charities over a two-year period to maximise its impact.
This year, the spotlight shone on the Australian Street Aid Project, founded by Mackay nurse Kayleigh Brewster in 2018, and the Grapevine Group, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Brewster expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support, emphasising the critical role of funding in providing essential services to the homeless population.
For Edie Weiss, training coordinator at Grapevine Group, the ball's significance extended beyond monetary contributions.
"This donation will enable Grapevine Group to offer medium and large businesses the opportunity to have their own in-house safeTALK Trainers on staff to help train more locals in suicide prevention," Weiss explained, highlighting the organisation's commitment to expanding its reach and impact.

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More than 400 people gathered at the MECC for the annual Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography

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