A sold-out crowd, picture-perfect weather and an incredible community spirit made this year's Mayoral Charity event, the Mayday Cruise, the best yet.
Hosted by Mayor Anthony Marsh aboard Searoad Ferries' MV Queenscliff, the Mayday Cruise brought together more than 250 guests from across the Mornington Peninsula for a night of food, music and fundraising on the bay.
Guests were treated to canapés, fresh oysters and sparkling on arrival, along with local wines, beer, cider and rum. The Royal Australian Navy Band performed on the pier before departure, followed by The Baker Boys Band entertaining guests on board as the ferry cruised along the Peninsula coastline under clear skies and calm seas, with the occasional pod of dolphins as it made its way towards the McCrae lighthouse.
The event raised a record $61,278.77, with proceeds going directly to 11 local community organisations, each nominated by a Councillor. Funds were raised through ticket sales, donations and an online silent auction featuring local experiences and prizes generously contributed by Peninsula businesses.
Mayor Anthony Marsh said the event exceeded all expectations.
"The Mayday Cruise was an incredible showcase of community spirit. From our sponsors and donors to every guest on board, the generosity and good energy were infectious. It was a celebration of everything great about our Peninsula - community, connection and kindness."
"To raise over $61,000 in one evening is a phenomenal result that will make a real difference to the local organisations supporting our residents every day."
A special thanks was extended to the event sponsors for their generous support:
Searoad Ferries (Platinum Sponsor), Mornington Peninsula Technology, Industry and Business Park (Gold Sponsor), Pt Leo Estate (Gold Sponsor), St Andrews Beach Brewery, Hotel Sorrento, Wittingslow Amusements, JimmyRum (Silver Sponsors), and the Mornington Peninsula News Group (Media Partner).
The Mayor also thanked the many local businesses that contributed prizes and experiences to the silent auction, helping make the event such a success.
Guests enjoyed breathtaking views, dancing and a strong sense of community pride as dolphins joined the cruise at sunset, the perfect finale to a remarkable evening.
Funds raised will support a diverse group of community organisations across the Peninsula, including Gunnamatta Surf Life Saving Club, Kindred Clubhouse, Mornington Tourist Railway, Mount Eliza Men's Shed, Projex J, Rosebud McCrae Life Saving Club, Rotary Club of Somerville Tyabb, Safety Beach-Dromana Men's Shed, Capel Sound Community Hub, Southern Peninsula Rescue Squad, and Sunshine Reserve Mount Martha, each making a meaningful difference in their part of the community.
The Mayday Cruise set a new record for fundraising and community engagement and stands as the most successful Mayoral Charity event in recent memory.
Mayor Marsh said he was deeply honoured to host the event and thrilled with the outcome.
"It was such a privilege to bring our community together for a night that was uplifting, generous and full of heart. Seeing everyone come together in support of local causes was incredibly special. I could not be prouder of what we achieved together."
A cheque presentation to the 11 beneficiary community organisations will take place at the Council Meeting on Tuesday 5 November, where each group will be formally acknowledged for their contribution to the Peninsula community.
Check out the photo here:maydaycruise.com.au/photos
