General News
16 January, 2026
Town rallies for giving tree appeal
WARRNAMBOOL has once again proven the power of community, with more than $100,000 set to support locals on the back of last month’s Meli Giving Tree Appeal.
Now in its 25th year, the appeal helps individuals and families seeking support through local organisations including Meli, The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre (The SAFV Centre) and The Orange Door.
Funds from the campaign were transformed into e-gift cards, giving recipients the dignity and choice to buy what they needed most during the festive season.
Meli chief executive officer Robyn Hayles thanked the Warrnambool region for its support, describing it as a powerful example of what can be achieved when the community unites behind a cause.
“The generosity of our community never ceases to amaze us; your kindness helped make Christmas brighter for hundreds of families,” Ms Hayles said.
“A heartfelt thank you also goes to our generous partners whose support makes a big difference in providing hope and joy to locals facing challenges.”
Chief executive officer of the SAFV Centre, Kerriann Campbell-Jones, said the support made a meaningful difference for people experiencing hardship around Christmas.
“Thank you all for the incredible generosity you have shown in supporting the Meli Giving Tree Appeal,” she said.
“We know how valued these gifts are to the people we support, and the kindness it shows - that their community cares for them.”
