Carina Leagues Club’s Katherine Ward has been crowned the Leukaemia Foundation’s U.G.L.Y. 2018 Bartender of the Year.

Celebrating its 10th year, this year’s U.G.L.Y Bartender of the Year award saw more than 1500 big-hearted bartenders participate and complete for the title of “U.G.L.Y.” (‘Understanding, Generous, Likeable, You’) Bartender of the Year.

Kat hosted a range of fundraising activities to raise a massive $ $35,360 to claim the Queensland and National awards.

“I’m so excited! Thank you to everyone in the local community who got behind the campaign to support a great cause and ultimately people affected with blood cancer”, Kat said.

Together, all bartenders in Queensland raised $563,338 for the Leukaemia Foundation’s vital accommodation service.

Every day, another 35 Australians are diagnosed with blood cancer and in acute cases treatment starts within hours. For those in regional areas, it means immediately leaving everything behind to relocate to the city.

“The Leukaemia Foundation helps by providing a home-away-from-home close to treatment, taking this added stress of families away”, said Bill Petch, Leukaemia Foundation CEO

“The sheer ambition of Katherine who went above and beyond to support those living with blood cancer cannot go by without being acknowledged. On behalf of the Foundation and those who will be supported as a result of the fundraising efforts of Katherine thank you!” he said.

“We sincerely thank all the bartenders who have helped to raise almost $1.5 million across Australia. This is equivalent to 18,750 nights of accommodation for regional families during their treatment in the city. An incredible outcome all round!”

This year’s prizes per state include a $3000 Flight Centre gift card, Hoshizaki Ice Machine, or Lancer Beverage System products and services, to the value of $7500 and an U.G.L.Y. winner’s trophy.