Mayor launches call out for 2026 Christmas Appeal partner

Community organisations can now express their interest in being a recipient for the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, which is returning for its 40^th year.

First established in July 1986, the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal spreads hope and relief for Townsville locals doing it tough during the festive period.

Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said the appeal would support locals who needed a helping hand this Christmas.

“Christmas is a special time, but it can also be especially tough financially,” Cr Dametto said.

“We know the rising cost of living is putting pressure on many households across Townsville, so we want to ensure this year’s Appeal really hits the mark.

“That’s why we’re putting the call out early for local charities and community groups to register their interest to get involved.

“Our 2026 Appeal will focus on monetary donations, directed to either one local organisation or a small group of organisations best placed to deliver support where it’s needed most.

“For 40 years the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal has been about locals helping locals, and we’ve got some great opportunities coming up for the community to get behind it.”

Deputy Mayor Suzy Batkovic said she hoped this year’s appeal would help ease some of the cost-of-living pressures being faced across the community in the lead-up to Christmas.

“Many families are already feeling the pinch this year, and we hope this year’s Mayor’s Christmas Appeal can provide some relief and support to those doing it tough,” Cr Batkovic said.

“We know it’s the selfless and hardworking volunteers behind our local charities who best understand the financial and personal challenges being faced by some of our most vulnerable community members.

“Through the nomination process, we’re looking forward to hearing from as many groups as possible about where they believe the greatest need exists in 2026, and how they would use the support to help others.”

Community groups wishing to be considered as the recipient of the 2026 Mayor’s Christmas Appeal can nominate via the application form on Council’s website. Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday 17 June.