In a fantastic effort, the 2023 Mayor’s Annual Charity Ball has raised more than $105,000, this being the highest amount ever raised since the first Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor’s Ball in 2015.
RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company were the two nominated charities, each receiving $52,914.29 at a special presentation last week.
Mayor Julie Hall said she’s elated to have raised such a huge amount and the generosity from sponsors and the community is nothing less than remarkable.
“The decision to support these charities was simple, because ultimately, Council, RACQ CQ Rescue and Whitsunday Housing Company Limited all want the same thing. That is, to serve the needs of our communities,” Mayor Hall said.
“As a Council, we are focused on doing the best by everyone living, working or visiting the Whitsundays which includes keeping everyone safe.”
RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee said the community was indebted to Whitsunday Regional Council for their support from the 2023 Whitsunday Mayor’s Ball which helped ensure the service was available to anyone, anywhere, anytime across Central Queensland.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such vital support from such a high-profile partner which ensures we can have a world-class aeromedical helicopter service on our doorstep and available 24/7, 365 days a year to residents, workers and visitors across Central Queensland,” Mr Healee said.
“RACQ CQ Rescue is a vital part of emergency support for all in this region and the Whitsunday region is one of our most frequented destinations. It’s reassuring to know Whitsunday Regional Council really appreciates the value of supporting our helicopter and that with their commitment we can continue to provide our vital, lifesaving service to anyone in a time of crisis,” he said.
Whitsunday Housing Company CEO Joanne Moynihan said the generosity of everyone involved will help women in the community that have been impacted by all types of personal and financial challenges.
“Homelessness does not discriminate, and it can happen to literally anyone,” Ms Moynihan said.
“I am aware you have a lot of choices when it comes to donating, and I am so grateful that you chose to contribute to our cause. To all that attended the Mayor’s Charity Ball, it’s the people in the community like you that see the purpose of our cause and we appreciate you for doing that,” she said.
“This will ensure that we get closer to our goal to complete the work on our first Tiny Homes project.”
Mayor Julie Hall with RACQ CQ Rescue Sponsorship Manager Tegan Philpott and Whitsunday Housing Company CEO Joanne Moynihan, and Sandy Clark, Fundraising Coordinator of Tiny Homes Project, accepting the massive donations. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
