Gold Coast shows support for Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal with Infinity’s help
Graeme Holm and 200 Infinity team members backed the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal
What’s happening?
The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is underway, and long-time supporter Graeme Holm joined Kmart and The Salvation Army at Kmart Broadbeach on 28 November 2025.
He called on Queenslanders to give generously this festive season.
As part of the effort, two hundred Infinity team members visited the store and filled trolleys with toys, books and essential items.
These were placed under the Wishing Tree to support families who need help at Christmas.
Graeme is the founder of Infinity Group and has supported the Appeal for many years.
For him, this is more than a yearly event. It is tied to his own childhood and the support his family once received.
He grew up with his grandparents and single mum in Wollongong and remembers the hardship they faced.
He also remembers the help provided by The Salvation Army.
Why it matters
Graeme said the Appeal shaped him from a young age.
“Seeing those shelves of presents and knowing a stranger cared meant everything,” Graeme said. “The Appeal has stayed with me ever since, and I want people to know that no matter their circumstances, someone cares this Christmas. Bring your kids into your local Kmart and show them what the Wishing Tree Appeal is all about. It’s such a powerful way to teach kindness and give back to families doing it tough.”
Research from The Salvation Army shows that the cost-of-living crisis continues to pressure families.
The research found that 64 percent of Australians feel increased financial stress.
Last year’s Appeal recorded a 31 percent year on year increase in donations.
The organisation says community support helps ease pressure during a busy and stressful season.
Rendle Williams from The Salvation Army said support at Christmas helps families feel seen.
“Every year, Australians step up to support The Salvation Army and the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal, bringing hope to people who need a hand. Every gift placed under a Wishing Tree helps ensure no one misses out on Christmas Day,” Williams said.
Local impact
The Broadbeach event brought together volunteers, partners and community members.
It showed how local support helps families who would otherwise go without gifts or essentials.
Kmart Queensland State Operations Manager, Nathan Woolnough, thanked those involved.
“For nearly four decades, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal has brought people together to share kindness and support those who need it most,” Mr Woolnough said. “With the help of Graeme, the Infinity team and the wider Gold Coast community, we’re able to continue making everyday living brighter for families who are doing it tough. Their generosity makes an extraordinary impact.”
Infinity Group has played a consistent role in strengthening the Appeal.
The company is one of Australia’s fast-growing financial services firms and a key supporter of the campaign.
So far this year, the Appeal has reached the milestone of one million dollars raised.
Infinity helped reach this milestone after contributing two hundred thousand dollars last year through the combined efforts of its team, clients and partners.
By the numbers
The Salvation Army reports that 64% of Australians feel increased financial stress due to cost pressures.
Last year’s Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal saw a 31% rise in donations compared to the year before.
Infinity Group helped reach the one-million-dollar milestone this year after contributing $200,000 last year.
200 Infinity team members visited Kmart Broadbeach during the Appeal effort.
Zoom in
Infinity Group’s support is tied to Graeme’s personal experience with hardship and community care.
His return to the Wishing Tree Appeal each year reflects a commitment that began in childhood when his family received help during difficult times.
The Broadbeach event showed how businesses, charities and locals work together to support families who need a hand during Christmas.
The visit also highlighted the long-running partnership between Kmart and The Salvation Army.
Zoom out
The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is Australia’s largest Christmas gift drive.
It is also the longest-running, with more than fourteen million gifts delivered to families in need through The Salvation Army.
The ongoing rise in cost pressures means families across the country rely on the Appeal each year.
Its scale and long history show how collective support helps keep Christmas meaningful for people who are struggling.
What to look for next
The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal will continue through the festive season.
More Queenslanders are expected to visit stores and place gifts under the tree as Christmas approaches.