The store’s annual Christmas tree appeal was launched Wednesday morning with the ceremony including cake cutting and carols. 

Kmart store manager Alysse Winter said last year the Mount Isa community donated 1266 presents in the appeal. 

These are donated to the Salvation Army and to Mission Australia to give to financially struggling families in the region. 

“We know there is a lot of families in need in Mount Isa this year and we want to support them as best as we can,” Ms Winter said, explaining the increased goal for donated presents. 

Presents can be bought from Kmart or elsewhere and attached with a label found on the store’s Christmas tree. 

“It can be anything at all but do not forget adults as well,” she said. 

“A book, a gift card, anything they like.” 

Mount Isa Salvation Army lieutenant Helen Whittle said the charitable organisation did have some restrictions on what they gave to families, but these were mainly gun based presents. 

“We love to give kids presents that help them in the coming years,” she said. 

School based equipment or books were such examples. 

Lieutenant Whittle said the hardest group to buy for were teenage boys, and the organisation often ran short. 

She suggested sports equipment, books or DVDs as good presents.