Usadee Dances To Victory In Show-Stopping Night

By Amanda Wright

She came in like a wrecking ball—and left with the mirror ball trophy.

In a night filled with dazzling performances, surprise victories, and more than a few jaw-dropping moments, the 2025 Dancing with Heart event saw Usadee Phiraphak take centre stage with an electrifying routine to Miley Cyrus’ ‘Wrecking Ball.’ The Revolution Electrical representative left it all on the dance floor, proving that passion and perseverance can outshine even the most seasoned performers.

The crowd at the MECC was on their feet as the winner was announced, but no one was more shocked than Usadee herself. The moment was punctuated by a joyful shriek—an audible mix of disbelief and sheer excitement—echoing through the packed venue. The result of months of gruelling rehearsals, her triumph was all the more extraordinary given that she had never stepped onto a stage for a dance performance before.

A Night To Remember
Dancing With Heart Raises $85,000 For Local Hospitals

The MECC was alive with glitz, glamour, and an overwhelming sense of community as ten brave dancers took to the stage for the 2025 Dancing with Heart competition. Organised by the Mackay Hospital Foundation (MHF), the annual event saw competitors from across the region step out of their comfort zones in the name of charity.

The competition was fierce, with standout performances including Jason Barrett’s dynamic take on Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella,’ which earned him the People’s Choice Award, and Stacey Brownsey’s fundraising prowess, securing an incredible $9,111 for the cause. But it was Usadee Phiraphak’s breathtaking performance that sealed the deal, securing her the prestigious mirror ball trophy, presented by last year’s champion, Zach Spencer.

MHF General Manager Kristi Algate praised the dedication of everyone involved, particularly choreographer Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School, who worked tirelessly to turn complete beginners into stage-ready stars.

“Dolly puts her heart and soul into this event each year to choreograph participants’ routines, with many having no previous dance experience whatsoever,” Ms Algate said.

“We are so proud of what she achieves year after year, and the Fame Talent School backup dancers do an amazing task of helping to finesse each dance.”

The judging panel—Cathy Sullivan from Mt Pleasant Centre, Detective Inspector Emma Novosel from the Mackay Whitsunday District Queensland Police Service, and Josh Smith from Elders Insurance—had their work cut out for them, as each contestant brought energy and enthusiasm to the stage.

With each dancer tasked with raising $5,000, the event exceeded expectations, bringing in more than $85,000 to support local hospitals.

Ms Algate was quick to acknowledge the commitment of the participants and the broader community.

“To each of the dancers, the backup dancers, to Dolly Louw, prize donors, sponsors, and everyone who attended Dancing with Heart, we owe a huge gratitude to all for supporting the dancers and this event but most importantly, for supporting our local hospitals,” she said.

“These dancers are incredibly brave for putting their hand up to support a cause that benefits our entire community. The amount of hours dedicated by Dolly and each participant hasn’t gone unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful.”

With the 2025 competition now in the books, the countdown has already begun for 2026. As Ms Algate hinted, “With Dancing with Heart 2025 behind us, it won’t be long before we’re recruiting dancers for 2026. We can hardly wait.”

One thing’s for sure—next year’s competitors will have some big dance shoes to fill.

Usadee Phiraphak brought the house down with her powerful "Wrecking Ball" performance, leaving the audience in awe and securing the Dancing with Heart 2025 crown. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

Capturing the energy, passion, and unforgettable performances of Dancing with Heart 2025, as local stars took the stage in support of Mackay Hospital Foundation. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

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