The Rotary Club of Lilydale gathered on 24 February for a special General Meeting dedicated to thanking supporters of the 2025 Wishing Tree Appeal. The evening recognised volunteers, donors, community partners and businesses who made last year’s Christmas appeal another meaningful success for children and young people connected to Anchor’s foster care and kinship care programs.

Well into its fifth year, the Wishing Tree Appeal has now become a valued local tradition. Each year, community members select a tag, purchase a gift, and contribute to hampers prepared specifically for children and young people supported by Anchor. For many of the children who receive these gifts, this may be the only present they receive during the festive season. The act of giving carries a powerful message that someone in their community has thought about them, chosen something with care, and wants them to experience the joy of Christmas morning.

In her address to attendees, our CEO Heidi shared her gratitude for the consistent generosity shown by Rotary members and the wider Lilydale community. She spoke about the importance of partnership and the quiet commitment shown by those who return each year to support the appeal.

The Rotary Club of Lilydale has played a central role in coordinating the appeal, mobilising volunteers, and engaging local businesses and residents, and their community leadership has helped transform a seasonal initiative into a sustained partnership grounded in care and shared purpose.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Rotary Club of Lilydale and every supporter who contributed to the 2025 Wishing Tree Appeal. Your generosity continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and young people across our community.