Rockhampton bartender, Mel Prior of the Glenmore Hotel knows how to make the best of an U.G.L.Y. situation. For the second year running, the community minded Mel was awarded the coveted title of Queensland ‘U.G.L.Y. Bartender of the Year’, having raised an amazing $23,412 to support regional blood cancer patients.

Across Queensland, 320 bartenders took part in the Leukaemia Foundation’s unique U.G.L.Y. (Understanding, Generous, Likeable, You) fundraising competition, raising a record-breaking total of $530,000 towards free accommodation for regional patients.

Mel is a deserved winner, campaigning tirelessly throughout the six week competition, collecting donations, running raffles, a money board, car wash, sausage sizzles, a trivia night and cocktail night.

“I’ve put my heart and soul into fundraising for the Leukaemia Foundation and I’m very proud to know that over two years I’ve been able to raise $49,000 towards helping families of blood cancer patients,” Mel said.

“I couldn’t have done it without the support of the Rockhampton community, the Glenmore Tavern staff, management and my family and friends.”

Second place went to Paolo Giancarlo at Edgewater Dining and Lounge Bar on the Gold Coast, while third place to Pilar Tester at the Goodna Services Club. Both entrants raised over $21,000.

Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Bill Petch said he was very impressed by the amazing enthusiasm shown by this year’s entrants.

“The U.G.L.Y. Bartender of the Year competition is a quirky and fun way for bartenders to become involved with their local community to raise the bar and beat blood cancers,” said Mr. Petch.

“The creativity and commitment this state’s entrants have shown led to a record breaking result for the national fundraising competition.

“I would like to sincerely thank all the U.G.L.Y. bartenders across Queensland, their staff and patrons for helping to provide this vital support for blood cancer patients. Every $80 raised can provide one night of free accommodation for regional patients who have to relocate to Brisbane or Townsville to receive treatment.”

U.G.L.Y. Bartender of the Year will now go on to launch in all other states on 1 October 2015, wrapping up on 16 November 2015.