2022 Christmas Shop Local begins!

This year shoppers will have the chance to win a share of $12,000 in Coo-ee Cash Cards. This is the 14th year that council has run the Christmas campaign. Council attributes the campaigns’ growth to the ongoing support and positive feedback from the community.

Councillor Gail Babbage, chair of the economic development committee said Shop Local is a wonderful program that gives residents and visitors more reason to spend in the Gilgandra region.

“It allows them to show their community spirt by supporting local businesses, while showcasing the great range of products, services and gifts that are available locally in our own backyard,” said Cr Babbage.

Council counted close to 30,000 entries in last year’s Shop Local, which directly contributed to $1.8 million spend into local businesses in the lead up to Christmas.

“This is an overwhelming response, a big thank you to all who participated in our Shop Local campaign last year, we are looking forward to your support again this year,” said Cr Babbage.

Acting director of growth and liveability, Kathryn Larkin said the 2022 Shop Local Christmas campaign seeks to engage with more local businesses, residents, and visitors.

“We are aiming to showcase the Gilgandra Region, and the diverse businesses and services available locally, with all businesses in the Gilgandra Region part of the program. Many people are enjoying their travel regionally, and we hope to see more visitors enter the program and return to the Gilgandra Region, while also enticing our locals to complete their Christmas shopping locally. It’s all about becoming a ‘Local Legend’ this Christmas.”

“Shop Local packs, including entry envelopes and QR codes, are being delivered to businesses currently. With the increase of online businesses in our region, we’re excited to again offer digital entries this year. Complemented by the entry barrel located in our main street, we’re hoping to cater to all types of businesses – and their shoppers!”

Entrants must provide receipt/s from any business located in the Gilgandra Region, to a total value of at least $50.

“We encourage all shoppers to enter the draws, with the winning prizes of Coo-ee Cash cards can be used right across the Gilgandra shire with any business that accepts participating EFTPOS. Homewares, farm and hardware supplies, gifts for loved ones are all examples of how these cards may be spent. You may be surprised by what can be found locally!” says Mrs Larkin.

Shop Local 2022 will again feature weekly draws and a major draws event will be held during the ‘Christmas Wonderland Community’ event in December.

Mrs Larkin said more details will be released about this event including the closure of Miller Street, street food and market stalls, a visit from Santa, craft with Gilgandra Youth Services, music and more.

“As we promote the Shop Local program, we’ll continue to showcase faces of our Local Legends – these may be our business owners or shoppers – who will you see next!”