Mayor's Charity Gala returns to support Logan charities

5 August 2026

The much-loved Mayor’s Charity Gala is making a spectacular return to the City of Logan, promising an unforgettable evening of community impact.

The gala marks a new chapter for the City of Logan Charitable Trust (CoLCT) as it strengthens community connections and grows its capacity to support local charities through grants and fundraising.

Returning to the Logan events calendar after years away, the gala follows the success of the Trust’s inaugural Game Changers fundraising event in 2025.

Organisers hope the Mayor’s Charity Gala will once again become Logan’s night of nights while raising vital funds for local causes.

This year’s enchanted garden theme will transform the Beenleigh Events Centre into a magical space filled with colour, light and wonder.

CoLCT Deputy Chair and Mayoress Ali Raven says the return of the Mayor’s Charity Gala is an important milestone for the Trust.

‘We’re excited to bring this iconic event back to Logan,’ Mayoress Raven says.

‘The enchanted garden theme reflects what this event is all about, bringing people together in a beautiful and welcoming environment while raising funds that will help local charities continue their important work.’

Above: The theme for this year's Mayor's Charity Gala is 'Enchanted'.

With an inspiring fireside chat from Mayor Jon Raven and Jason Daniel, founder and CEO of international lifestyle brand LSKD, the room was buzzing with energy, ideas, and connection.

The revival of the gala follows a year of planning by the Trust’s volunteer board.

‘Over the past 12 months, the board and I have been working together to bring the Mayor’s Charity Gala to life, Mayoress Raven says.

‘That has involved everything from securing the venue, engaging local suppliers, entertainers and performers, to seeking sponsorships, sourcing auction and raffle prizes, and promoting the gala throughout the community.

‘As a volunteer board, there are many hours of planning behind the scenes, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it all coming together.’

Guests will enjoy a premium 3-course dining experience, beverage package, live entertainment, inspiring speakers, auctions, raffles and fundraising activities throughout the evening.

The event, presented by River Road Tavern and Eagle Tavern, also provides an opportunity for the community to learn more about the City of Logan Charitable Trust and its work supporting local charities and creating positive outcomes across the city.

‘I really hope the gala is successful not only in raising funds, but also in increasing awareness of the valuable work being done by the City of Logan Charitable Trust and the many local charities we support,’ Mayoress Raven says.

‘More than anything, I hope it brings our community together for an evening that people genuinely enjoy. If guests leave feeling inspired, knowing they’ve made a difference while having a wonderful night in our enchanted garden setting, then we’ll consider that a great success.’

Above: River Road Tavern (a presenting partner for the gala) manager Joe Walker with Mayoress Ali Raven and Logan Mayor Jon Raven. Photo: Steven Hoare.

Community collaboration has been central to planning the event, with organisers engaging Logan businesses, suppliers, artists and performers wherever possible.

‘Supporting local is something the board and I are very passionate about,’ Mayoress Raven says.

‘The City of Logan Charitable Trust is guided by three key principles: facilitate, educate and collaborate, and engaging local businesses allows us to bring those values to life.

‘When local businesses support charitable events, everyone benefits. We not only raise funds for local charities, but also help promote local enterprises, encourage collaboration and celebrate the people who make Logan such a vibrant community.’ 

Many of those helping bring the enchanted garden theme to life are Logan-based businesses, including Logan Catering Co., Elysian Event Hire, KWP Studios, local entertainers and videographers, alongside major sponsors River Road Tavern, Eagle Tavern, Woolworths Logan and Community Bank.

CoLCT Chair Dr John Gilmour says the Mayor’s Charity Gala will unite the community around a shared purpose.

‘As the City of Logan Charitable Trust continues to grow, this event will help strengthen our connection with the community and raise essential funds that can be directed back into charities that improve lives across Logan,’ Dr Gilmour says.

Above: Earlier this year the City of Logan Charitable Trust donated $6000 to the Kids 4 Kids Foundation, pictured is Mayoress Ali Raven (second from right).

For Mayoress Raven, the gala reflects the generosity and community spirit that define Logan.

‘I feel incredibly fortunate to serve our community and to have the opportunity to give back in such a meaningful way,’ she says.

‘Being able to play a small part in bringing people together to support those in need is something I am truly proud of.’

Secure your seat now. To book visit Mayor's Charity Gala

Photo at top: City of Logan Charitable Trust directors Stewart Fleming and Mayoress Ali Raven planning the Mayor's Charity Gala for 2026. Photo: Steven Hoare.