Shop Local wrap up

In its 13th year, the Gilgandra Shire program underwent some changes. The program was once again backed by the community with close to 30,000 entries and had a 50 per cent growth in the number of businesses supported by the program from last year according to receipts collected.

Gilgandra Mayor Doug Batten said year after year the program gives residents and visitors more reasons to spend in Gilgandra.

“With the introduction of the digital and $20 entries per envelope we saw almost a 50 per cent increase in the number of businesses supported through this program, so we thank the shoppers who really did share the love.

“There were 10 community winners and five business winners of Cooee Cash cards over the course of the campaign, it was wonderful to be able to reward them for their efforts and have that money then reinvested back into the local economy.”

The 2021 program finished off with the Bendigo Bank Gilgandra Bonanza Day which saw crowds of locals and travellers fill up Miller Street and celebrate Christmas festivities, market stalls, mand raffles. Gilgandra Shire Council marketing and communications manager, Kathryn Larkin, said it was great to see so many people in the main street on the final day.

“There was a good crowd present on Miller Street for the Bonus Shop Local Draw, where participants had to be there on the day to win. The standout of the day was arrival of the jolly fella in red handing out lollies and sleigh rides to all the children, much to their delight. A shout out to the Gilgandra Rural Fire Brigade for making his entrance a standout!”

The local legends promotion was also added to the program in 2021, showcasing local faces doing their bit for the community.

“The growth of the Shop Local Program and Local Legends Promotion has been great to see, especially with the increase in entries, supported businesses and introduction of online entries. We look forward to the year ahead and all the upcoming events within the region.”