November 3, 2022

As Christmas approaches, it is time to think about helping out the children whose families have been through so much this year.

The Gunnedah Shire community can once again help make Christmas joyful by giving a gift to the annual Gunnedah Shire Community Christmas Tree Toy Appeal.

The Gunnedah Shire Council and the Salvation Army are joining hands to hold this appeal, now in its ninth year.

Gunnedah Shire Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke said the Gunnedah Shire Community Christmas Tree Toy Appeal had made Christmas brighter for hundreds and hundreds of local children over the years.

“This is a simple and beautiful way we can all share some of our good fortune,” Cr Hooke said.

“Just by taking an unwrapped toy to Gunnedah Shire Council’s Elgin Street office or Gunnedah Shire Library and putting it under the tree, you are guaranteeing there is something special for a young person this Christmas.
“You can make a wonderful difference.

“This is a lovely, ongoing partnership with the Salvation Army that always shows just how generous our community is.”

Salvation Army soldier Peter Hall said initiatives such as the Gunnedah Shire Community Christmas Tree Toy Appeal helped families when they needed it most.

“It’s been a tough year here, as it has been across the state and the country,” he said. “This is a great practical way we can make this time special for the children.

“Every year, Gunnedah Shire Council and the Salvation Army are able to work together to bring the spirit of Christmas.”

Toys for all ages of children and young people are welcome, but for hygiene reasons and due to COVID-19, pre-loved toys, pre-loved clothing and food donations cannot be accepted. If you can help out, please bring the unwrapped toys to:

• Gunnedah Shire Council, 63 Elgin Street, Gunnedah,
  • or Gunnedah Shire Library, 291 Conadilly Street, Gunnedah.

Toys must be received by Friday, December 9.

Caption: (From left) Gunnedah Shire Library Librarian Christiane Birkett, Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke with Peter Hall and Sally Anne Hall from the Salvation Army with toys for the Gunnedah Shire Community Christmas Tree Toy Appeal.

ENDS
For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Communications team on (02) 6740 2100.