23 September 2025: Tuesday 23 September 2025: At just under 5,000m², the multi-million-dollar hangar was designed to house some of the world’s largest private jets. For the SunnyKids Mayoral Ball — one of Queensland’s most prestigious fundraising events — half of the vast space will be transformed into a black-tie gala venue, with capacity to host up to 1,000 guests. This year’s ball will welcome around 300 attendees, while the remainder of the facility stays operational.
Machjet Managing Director, Simon McDermott, said the milestone highlights both the operational and commercial potential of the new hangar.
“This facility was designed first and foremost to meet growing demand in private aviation, from executive charters and specialist missions to international arrivals,” McDermott said.
“But its scale and flexibility mean it can also serve as a one-of-a-kind venue. Hosting the Mayoral Ball as our first major event is the perfect way to demonstrate that versatility.”
The dedicated 2,200m² event space will feature 9.4 metre high ceilings and extensive infrastructure, including three-phase power and ceiling purlins that allow for large-scale rigging. For the October event, the hangar will be transformed with banquet seating, stage, dance floor and full gala production.
Now in its ninth year, the SunnyKids Mayoral Ball raises vital funds for children and families impacted by domestic and family violence. This year’s program will feature keynote speaker Madonna King, fine dining, entertainment and fundraising initiatives.
SunnyKids CEO, Kathleen Hope, said hosting the Ball in Machjet’s new hangar marks a new chapter for the event.
“The Mayoral Ball has always been about uniting our community to create safer futures for children and families,” Hope said.
“In 2025, we’re proud to elevate the experience even further by being the very first to stage an event in this stunning new aviation facility.”
About Machjet International
Machjet International is a leading fixed-wing charter operator delivering specialist air services across Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and worldwide. Part of the McDermott Aviation Group – Australia’s largest privately-owned aviation company – Machjet operates a fleet of 13 aircraft from its 24-hour Fixed Base Operations at Sunshine Coast and Cairns Airports. Services include executive jet travel, aeromedical retrievals, urgent cargo transport, and government operations.
For more information, visit www.machjet.com.au
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