MELISSA Stokes has taken out the 23rd position across the state for the U.G.L.Y Bartender of the Year competition.

Representing the Beach House Hotel, Melissa raised an impressive $4,840, while Donna Clish from the Maryborough Sports Club raised the second highest amount for the Coast with $4100.25.

For the second year running, Rockhampton's Mel Prior 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.

In third place for the Fraser Coast, Haelee Fettik from the Carriers Arms Hotel in Maryborough raised $4,010. 

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," said Mel.

"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 and 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.

"Every $80 raised can provide one night of free accommodation for regional patients who have to relocate to Brisbane or Townsville to receive treatment," he said.

High Achievers (Top 25 in State)

# 4 in Qld & Regional Winner - Danielle Meers, Highway Hotel Gin Gin
# 8 in Qld - Pam Neubecker, Avondale Tavern, Avondale via Bundaberg
# 13 in Qld - Samii Hickman, New Royal Hotel Rubyvale
# 17 in Qld - Eve Clark, Allenstown Hotel, Rockhampton
# 23 in Qld - Melissa Stokes, Beach House Hotel, Hervey Bay.