Kangaroo Island Council has launched its 2025 Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal in partnership with the Kangaroo Island Community Centre (Junction). 

This annual initiative invites the community to donate gifts that will bring joy to local families who may be doing it tough this Christmas.

For more than twenty years, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal has been a source of hope and kindness for many Kangaroo Island families. Mayor Michael Pengilly says the generosity shown by Islanders each year reflects the strong community spirit that defines the Island.

“Every Christmas, our community rallies together to support one another. It is always touching to see how people come forward to help make the festive season brighter for families who may be facing challenges,” he says. 

“Whether you choose a toy, a book, a gift voucher or something practical for an older child, every donation makes a difference.”

Chief Executive Officer Daryl Buckingham encourages residents to take part and help share the joy of the season.

“The Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal is an opportunity for all of us to contribute to a brighter Christmas for local families,” he says. 

“No matter the size of the gift, each donation helps create a stronger and more caring community. We invite everyone to get involved.”

Gift donations can be delivered to the Council Office at 43 Dauncey Street in Kingscote, or to the Penneshaw Business Centre, until 5pm on Wednesday 17 December. 

Donors are asked to label gifts with the intended age and gender, from babies through to young people aged eighteen. Tags can be collected from the Kingscote Office.

To ensure gifts are safe and suitable for distribution, preloved toys and food items cannot be accepted.

Suggested gift ideas include:

• Toys and games
• Clothing and accessories
• Books
• Sporting items
• Beauty products
• Gift vouchers

All donated gifts will be collected at Kangaroo Island Community Centre for distribution to families before Christmas.

The community is invited to join the appeal and help share the goodwill and spirit of Christmas across the Island.