Bundaberg Regional Council is uniting with local charities, businesses and the community to officially launch the 2025 Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
The campaign was launched this morning at Buss Park, where Mayor Helen Blackburn was joined by charity representatives and major sponsor Auswide Bank.
“Every year the generosity of our community shines brightest at Christmas,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“The funds raised through this appeal help our local charity partners create hampers and provide support to residents who might be finding things a little harder this Christmas.”
Auswide Bank General Manager Damian Hearne said he hoped the contribution helps ease some of the financial pressure faced by local families.
“Bundaberg is at the heart of our history and this partnership reflects our deep commitment to standing alongside our community, not just in times of growth but in times of need,” Mr Hearne said.
“We believe that strong local businesses have a role to play in building a strong community and that means showing up to support those who are doing it tough, especially during the festive season.
“We encourage other businesses in the region to give what they can and help make this Christmas a little brighter for everyone.”
Charity partners leading the appeal
Alive Church Senior Pastor Joey Ryan, who also coordinates the Alive City Pantry, said the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal had helped the church support more families.
“For many years now we have been pulling together resources to provide Christmas hampers to the Bundaberg community,” Pastor Joey said.
“Since partnering with the Mayor we have been able to reach much, much further and effectively assist hundreds of families with hampers.
“We want to ensure everybody has the opportunity to put a meal on the table for Christmas day and ensure it is a season of celebration for all.”
Charities partnering with the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal include the Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul Bundaberg, St Vincent de Paul Childers, Angels Community Group and Alive Church, in addition to the Council-run Childers and Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centres.
Coordinated by Council, this year’s appeal has already raised $12,689 which includes funds that carried over from 2024.
The target for 2025 is to reach $50,000.
Get involved
Mayor Blackburn said there were lots of ways the community could get involved and show their support for families in need this Christmas.
“This year we are holding a gala fundraiser and we have had many wonderful local businesses come on to show their support for that event.
“But as a community member you can help by simply attending and enjoying an elegant evening of fun and frivolity with all funds raised from the live charity auction supporting the Christmas Appeal.
“Business and individuals can also sponsor hampers and we look forward to once again making the collectible Mayor’s Christmas Appeal baubles available for purchase later in the year.”
Sponsorship packages for the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal are available at bronze, silver and gold levels, which offer a range of incentives in return for supporting the appeal.
Community members and business can also donate at Family Hamper level, a contribution of $100 that assists one family in the region.
For more information about how to donate, see the project page here and download the sponsorship proposal here.
For more information about the Mayor’s Ball gala fundraiser, head to the Taste Bundaberg Festival program here.
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