This Saturday: Local Stars Dance for a Cause at Dancing with Heart

This Saturday, Mackay will light up as local and regional dancers take to the stage for Dancing With Heart 2026, an event that blends entertainment, courage, and community spirit for an important cause. Now in its third year, the annual event has quickly become a standout on the Mackay social calendar, drawing crowds eager to see familiar faces step out of their comfort zones and onto the dance floor.

Guided by celebrated choreographer Dolly Low and supported by the talented performers from Fame Talent School, each routine promises to deliver energy, skill, and heart. From rehearsed routines to last-minute improvisation, the performers are dedicating their time and talent to bring a night of dazzling entertainment, all while raising vital support for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests will have the chance to vote for the People’s Choice Award, putting them at the heart of the action, while one standout dancer will be crowned with the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy.

Proceeds from tickets go directly to enhancing patient care and comfort in our local hospitals, helping families and patients when they need it most.

Attendees will also enjoy a special main-course meal, an indulgent cheese platter, bottled wine on the table, and a drink on arrival, making it a night for all the senses.

One stage. One night. Countless memories and a lifetime of impact. Dancing With Heart 2026 presented by Mackay City Auto Group is at its most vibrant, compassionate, and connected — and it’s not to be missed!

Simon Robinson

Sergeant at Queensland Police Service

Simon Robinson is a familiar face to the community of Mackay, having dedicated 22 years to policing our streets.

Simon spent 17 of those years in Highway Patrol, riding the police motorcycle, leading parades and events and promoting road safety across the region.

Today, his role sees him working closely with local youth through sporting and community programs.

Before joining the police service, Simon spent nine years working at Mackay Base Hospital.

In October 2023, he was diagnosed with an aggressive, life-threatening melanoma under the nail of his right big toe. Thanks to some incredible doctors’ expertise, he recovered, though the treatment required the amputation of his right big toe; “Not great for dancing,” he jokes. He now encourages others to prioritise regular skin checks.

Outside of his police work, family is at the centre of everything. Simon has been married for 32 years to “an amazing woman who supported me throughout my career”, with whom he has raised two beautiful daughters.

Recently Simon has been supporting his wife in running the Driving Miss Daisy Mackay North franchise, helping locals through companionship and transport services.

What have you found the most difficult?

The only moves I have on the dance floor are dad moves! Counting steps is extremely challenging when I have the attention span of a goldfish and two left feet.

What do you love the most about the My Hospital Foundation?

Medical treatment is a reality for everyone at some point. Supporting this foundation and others like it provides vital assistance during those difficult times, for both patients and their families. It is a meaningful way to give back to our community and express our deep gratitude to the Mackay Health Service staff and volunteers, whose dedication we often take for granted.

Tegan McGovern
Fitstop Owner/ Personal Trainer

Mackay local Tegan McGovern is stepping into the spotlight this Saturday for Dancing With Heart, bringing with her a grounded sense of purpose shaped by community, consistency and care.

A Fitstop owner and personal trainer, Tegan takes great pride in her connection to Mackay, having spent her life growing up across the region and the Northern Beaches. It’s a familiarity that has helped shape both her personal and professional identity.

“I grew up in Mackay and the northern beaches my entire life, but really it wasn’t until I started my Fitness career that I found a place I felt I could make an impact,” she said.

Through her work, Tegan has found meaning in helping others, describing the role as more than just physical training.

“Fitstop and Personal training is such a wonderful way to be a part of people’s lives and have a positive impact.”

That same mindset carries into how she hopes to be remembered.

“I would like to be remembered for the good I have tried to put out into the world, even under pressure,” she said.

“Being an example to my family and community is important to who I want people to know me as.”

As she prepares for the stage, Tegan said the experience has already delivered memorable moments.

“Meeting the team behind the dream and the other participants has been such a highlight.”

What have you found the most difficult?

I am terrible at remembering choreo it turns out ...

What do you love the most about My Hospital Foundation?

I think the work that My Hospital Foundation does to support the local community and making sure those who require the health services provided have the best possible experience is so important to the overall outcomes of patient care.

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