BUSINESS FEATURE

Certainly not your grandma’s bingo night, KIND (Kids in Need Donations) is set to turn up the heat on the 21st of September with a true Drag Queen Bingo Night to raise crucial funds for children in the Douglas Shire grappling with chronic illnesses or injuries.

Against the lush backdrop of Oaks Port Douglas Resort, attendees can expect lively bingo rounds and mesmerising performances by acclaimed drag personalities like Miss Lady Saint Diva, renowned for her legacy on the dazzling stages of the Sunshine Coast, accompanied by DJ Neil.

President Danielle Bellero, at the helm of KIND, described how the decision to host this unique fundraising event stemmed from a desire to offer something fun and different for the community, “something that would draw a big crowd aimed at raising substantial funds and hopefully ensuring a sellout event”.

She further emphasised the event’s significance in a region where medical resources for critically ill children are limited. 

“Despite our idyllic surroundings, families here face extraordinary challenges when it comes to accessing specialised medical care,” she stated. “Many children must travel extensive distances to hospitals in Townsville or Brisbane for treatment not available locally.”

KIND currently supports 15 children in the area and has assisted several local families over the past decade. 

Through fundraising efforts and the generosity of the community and local businesses, the charity has provided approximately $200,000 in financial support to local children and their families.

“As we are only a very small committee, we rely on these fundraisers each year to be able to continue to have funds available for our families,” Ms Bellero added.

Other upcoming fundraiser events include:

• 5 November – KIND Melbourne Cup at The Glade, Sheraton Port Douglas.   

• 6 December - 4-ball Ambrose Charity Golf Day at the Mirage Country Club.