Bundaberg Regional Council has officially launched the 2026 Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, bringing together local charities, businesses and community members to support families doing it tough this festive season.
Mayor Helen Blackburn was joined by representatives from the Appeal’s charity partners and major sponsor Auswide Bank at today’s launch, marking the beginning of this year’s fundraising campaign.
Mayor Blackburn said the Appeal continued to play a vital role in ensuring local families could experience the joy of Christmas, regardless of their circumstances.
“Every year our community shows incredible generosity and compassion through the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“The funds raised help our charity partners provide practical support for local families, including Christmas hampers, gift cards and other assistance when it is needed most.”
Mayor Blackburn said the Christmas Appeal’s success was only possible through the support of sponsors, donors, volunteers and the wider community.
“We are delighted to welcome back Auswide Bank as the major sponsor of the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, donating $50,000 to the appeal over the next two years.
“This ongoing support demonstrates a genuine commitment to our region and helps ensure we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families.”
Last year, the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal raised more than $75,000 which provided 930 Christmas hampers and 225 gift cards to families across the Bundaberg Region ahead of Christmas.
Surplus funds have been carried over to this year’s total.
Mayor Blackburn also acknowledged the fundraising efforts at this year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball, which serves as the Appeal’s flagship fundraising event.
“This year’s Mayor’s Charity Ball was a great success, surpassing last year’s fundraising total to raise over $35,000.
“The generosity shown throughout the evening was truly remarkable and will help support more families throughout our region this Christmas.”
All funds raised through the Mayor’s Christmas appeal are distributed within the local area by charity partners, which in 2026 include:
- Alive Church
- Angels Community Group
- Salvation Army Bundaberg
- St Vincent de Paul Bundaberg
- St Vincent de Paul Childers
- Childers Neighbourhood Centres
- Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centres
Community members and businesses can support the Appeal through direct donations, sponsorship opportunities and fundraising activities throughout the year.
Mayor Blackburn encouraged everyone to get involved and help make Christmas brighter for local families in need.
“When our community comes together, we can achieve incredible things.
To donate or become a sponsor click here.
