An opulent and elegant night at the Mayoral Gala Charity Ball

Published on 15 September 2025

Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt addressed the 2025 Mayoral Gala Charit Ball.

THE SOMERSET community gathered for an opulent and elegant night at the 2025 Mayoral Gala Charity Ball on Saturday, 13 September at the Somerset Civic Centre in Esk.

The biennial event raised money for the Mayoral Gala Charity Ball Fund, which supports charitable organisations helping those in the community facing adversity.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt thanked every sponsor for their generous contribution to the night.

“Without our sponsors this fundraiser simply wouldn’t be possible, and we are deeply grateful for their support,” Cr Wendt said.

“A special thanks goes to our Platinum Sponsors – CPM Civil, Brown Contractors and Community Bank Lowood-Fernvale.

“The Somerset Civic Centre came to life with performances from ARIA Award Winner Karise Eden, The Con Artists Jazz Band from Griffith University’s Queensland Conservatorium, and the Baker Boys Band.

“We had incredible food courtesy of the chefs at Esk Grand Hotel, and wonderful service supported by Toogoolawah State High School students.

“Brady Schulz did an excellent job as our MC, and Ray White Rural Esk and Toogoolawah auctioneer Peter Chant helped raise more funds for the live auction with his silver tongue.”

Cr Wendt said the masquerade ball was a great night for Somerset.

“I am always amazed by the generosity of our community, and I look forward to working with Council to ensure the funds we have raised make tangible, positive differences in the lives of Somerset’s most disadvantaged,” Cr Wendt said.

Somerset Councillors Brett Freese, Sally Jess, Mayor Jason Wendt and Michael Bishop at the 2025 Mayoral Gala Charity Ball.

ARIA Award Winner Karise Eden gave an intimate performance at the exclusive, Platinum Sponsor cocktail event.

The Con Artists Jazz Band from Griffith University’s Queensland Conservatorium entertained ball attendees.

Attendees adorned their outfits with masks for the masquerade ball.

Ray White Rural Esk | Toogoolawah auctioneer Peter Chant helped raise funds with his silver tongue in the live auction.

Baker Boys Band had attendees dancing the night away.