What’s Happening?
The Mayor’s Charity Ball committee has announced its beneficiaries for the 2025 event, following a landmark $1 million in total donations in 2024. Grapevine Group will continue as a supported charity for a second year, while The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service joins as a new beneficiary.
Mayor Greg Williamson explained the importance of the two-year funding model: “Proceeds will be split 50-50 between Grapevine Group and new beneficiary The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service.”
Australian Street Aid Project, a previous recipient, steps down after completing its two-year tenure. Mayor Williamson highlighted their impact: “It’s exciting to see the positive impact of the funding for people who are experiencing homelessness in our region.”
Why It Matters?
The chosen charities address critical issues in the Mackay region. Grapevine Group focuses on suicide prevention and awareness, while The Salvation Army works to support and heal victim-survivors of family violence. This long-term funding approach allows each organisation to implement impactful programmes and expand their services.
Local Impact
Grapevine Group, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, is dedicated to raising awareness and providing life-saving training. Award-winning trainer Edie Weiss said, “The timing of the funding and support from the Mayor’s Charity Ball couldn’t be better, as we celebrated our 20th anniversary this year.”
The 2025 funds will allow Grapevine to expand their network of trainers and provide businesses the opportunity to have in-house safeTALK trainers. Weiss added, “To date, Grapevine has trained 6800 people, but many more need to be suicide aware, so attempts can be prevented and those struggling can find the vital support they need.”
The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service is seeing a significant rise in demand for support. Regional Manager Liz Carney said, “With a significant increase in demand for family violence services across the board, it’s more important than ever that The Salvation Army can continue to provide vital services to victim survivors.”
Carney further emphasised the importance of donations: “This donation will not only improve our facilities but also help us continue to offer recovery and healing services for victim-survivors in the Mackay region.”
She called for a collaborative approach to tackle gender-based violence: “At a time where there has been an unprecedented increase in the number of deaths due to gender-based violence in Australia, it’s crucial that all services come together to provide holistic responses to prevent and respond to family violence.”
By the Numbers:
– 2 charities: Grapevine Group (continuing for a second year) and The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service (new beneficiary for 2025).
– $1 million: Total donations raised by the Mayor’s Charity Ball as of 2024.
Zoom In
The Mayor’s Charity Ball also marks a change in sponsorships for 2025. DGH Engineering, a Platinum sponsor since the event’s inception, will step down. Mayor Williamson acknowledged their contribution: “DGH has been a major sponsor since the very beginning and their support has been instrumental in helping the event crack the $1 million mark last year.”
Taking their place as a Platinum sponsor is BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), which has previously supported the event as a Gold sponsor. The 2025 Platinum partners include Fergus Builders, Daly Bay, and BMA.
Gold sponsors for the event are Champ Group and Key Solutions Group. Silver sponsors include Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure, CQ Soil Testing, Southern Cross Industrial Group, and Pentacon. Media partners include 7 News Mackay, Daily Mercury, Hit 100.3, Triple M, and Tropical Exposure. In-kind sponsors Signarama and Twilight Mackay also remain key contributors.
Zoom Out
The Mayor’s Charity Ball has grown into one of Mackay’s most significant annual fundraising events, enabling local charities to sustain and expand their services. The event not only raises funds but also builds awareness about pressing community issues, including homelessness, suicide prevention, and family violence.
What to Look For Next?
Details about the 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball, including the event theme and additional fundraising goals, will be released soon. The committee encourages Mackay residents to get involved and, as Edie Weiss said, “Have a ball and make a difference.”
