On Saturday 25 October, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre was transformed into a little slice of the Amalfi Coast for this year’s Madd Ball.

The theme, A Night in Positano, set the scene for an evening full of colour and community spirit. Guests were welcomed with fire performers and acrobats before sitting down to a four-course Italian-inspired dinner with flowing drinks and plenty of conversation.

Vince Sorrenti guided the evening as MC, while the entertainment kept the energy high from start to finish. Conrad Sewell’s headline performance was a standout, with the entire ballroom on their feet singing along. The Amici Band carried the night well into the dancing, with the floor packed right until the very end.

There were also moments of reflection. Frank Tracey, Chief Executive of the Queensland Children’s Hospital, shared how the Foundation’s work changes lives every single day. Rebecca Reed spoke bravely about her son Lachlan’s journey, giving everyone in the room a powerful reminder of why this cause matters so much.

The fundraising efforts were equally inspiring. Guests bid generously in the live and silent auctions, raised their hands for table pledges and snapped up raffle tickets for the chance to win a brand-new Hyundai Kona. Donated by Madd Loans with 100 per cent of proceeds going directly to the Foundation, the raffle was only open to guests in the room, with one very lucky winner announced on the night. Alongside this, auction items included signed premiership jerseys from the Brisbane Lions and Brisbane Broncos, luxury holidays, jewellery and more than 180 silent auction prizes.

When the final total of $325,522 was revealed, the room erupted. It was a record-breaking figure that reflected not just the generosity of those in attendance but also the spirit of a community determined to make a difference.

The Madd Ball is always more than just a great night out. It’s about community, connection and making a difference. This year proved once again what Brisbane can achieve when we come together for a cause that matters.