19 October 2026: Machjet International’s hangar at Sunshine Coast Airport seated more than 330 guests for the tenth SunnyKids Mayoral Ball on Saturday 17 October. It was the second year the aviation hangar has been turned into a gala venue for the event.
The black-tie Ball raised $100,000 for SunnyKids’ Transitional Housing Project, which supports local families escaping domestic and family violence.
Guests sat down to a three-course dinner with Machjet’s aircraft as the backdrop, while aerial performers set up on their own rigging airside, just outside the hangar. Live entertainment, auctions and raffles rounded out the night.
Machjet International Managing Director Simon McDermott said the second Ball showed how far the space could be pushed.
“Most days this hangar is home to business jets, so seeing it set for more than 330 guests is something else,” Mr McDermott said.
“Last year proved it could work as a venue. This year the organisers took it a step further and brought aerial performers in airside, right outside the hangar, and that’s not something you can do at most venues.
“It’s a cause that means a lot to us and we’re proud to have hosted the Ball again. We’d love to see more event organisers come and have a look at what the space can do.”
The 4,600m² hangar was officially opened in October 2025 and houses large corporate jets, including Bombardier, Gulfstream and Falcon aircraft. For events, it has a dedicated space of around 2,200m² with 9.4-metre ceilings, three-phase power and ceiling purlins for large-scale rigging, and can hold up to 1,000 guests.
Machjet also sponsored the Ball. Its Hamilton Island accommodation and Alani yacht experience sold at auction for $20,000.
SunnyKids CEO Kathleen Hope thanked Machjet for again hosting the event.
“Saturday was a wonderful night, but its impact will be felt by local families long after the hangar doors close,” Ms Hope said.
The Machjet International hangar is available for corporate, gala and private events. Venue enquiries: charters@machjet.com.au or +61 7 5457 0778.
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