CHRISTMAS BRINGS OUT THE BEST IN US

The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is now underway and, once again, I’m asking our community to get behind local families who may be doing it tough this festive season.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as Mayor, it’s that our people look after one another.

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We all know the past few years haven’t been easy. Many households are still feeling the pressure of rising costs, higher bills and the everyday challenges that come with making ends meet. Yet, despite those pressures, our community continues to find ways to help others.

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That’s what makes living in Hinchinbrook special.

Last year, I saw examples of generosity that genuinely humbled me. Students donated bursary prize money they had earned themselves. People quietly added an extra item to their shopping trolley knowing it would help a local family. Businesses, community groups and individuals gave what they could, not because they had plenty, but because they cared.

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It's remarkable that when many of us are feeling the pinch ourselves, we still find room in our hearts to help someone else.

The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is a simple way to do exactly that.

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Whether it’s a new toy, a non-perishable food item, a gift voucher or a small cash donation, every contribution helps. What may seem like a small gesture can make a real difference to a local family at Christmas.

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For a child, it could mean waking up to find a gift under the tree. For a parent, it could provide a little relief during what can be a stressful time of year. Most importantly, it sends a message that our community cares.

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Donations can be placed under the Christmas tree at Council’s Customer Service Centre at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, during business hours.

All donations and funds raised will go directly to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, whose staff and volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year supporting vulnerable individuals and families across our region. Their work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but its impact is felt every day by those who need it most.

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I would like to sincerely thank the centre’s staff and volunteers, as well as everyone who supports the Appeal each year.

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The Appeal opens on Monday 2 November 2026 and closes at 5.00pm on Wednesday 9 December 2026, allowing time for donations to be sorted and distributed before Christmas.

As we head towards the festive season, I encourage everyone to consider whether they can spare a little to help someone else. It doesn’t have to be much.

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If you’d like to know more, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on 4776 4600 or email council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au for more information.

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