SHOP LOCAL WRAP & GEARING UP FOR AN EXCITING 2021!

Published on 18 January 2021

In its 12th year, Gilgandra Region’s Shop Local Program saw significant spend in the lead up to Christmas as our community bounces back from years of drought and the year that was 2020, with the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

With close to 9,500 entries, and envelopes averaging $166 in tax receipts, this directly contributed to over $1.56M to the Gilgandra economy.

Acting Mayor, Ashley Walker says

“This program gives residents and visitors more reason to spend in Gilgandra, supporting local businesses, and showcasing the great range of products, services and gifts that can be accessed locally.

Adding,

“With the introduction of three receipts per envelope we also saw an increase in the number of businesses supported through this program, so we thank the shoppers who really did share the love! There were 36 community winners and four 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.”

“We would like to thank the Economic Development Committee as they dedicated countless hours in the development and implementation of the Shop Local Program and in particular Wes Morris and Doug Clouten” says Cr Walker.

To cap off the promotion for 2020, Council and Gilgandra’s CWA Evening Branch hosted the Christmas Twilight markets and launched the new laneways of Gilgandra Region and community space behind 3Ds Butchery, with the theme Endless Possibilities.

Cr Walker says that the markets and unveiling of the new laneways and art installations is an initiative that came at an ideal time following an unusual year.

“It really is a unique time for the community, businesses and our Region. As we emerge from all the challenges of 2020, many that were unexpected, it was great to bring people together to enjoy some colour, vibrancy and activity to the CBD and end the year on a high.”

Council’s Marketing & Communications Manager, Kathryn Larkin says,

“With over 15 stalls, late night shopping opportunities, youth activities at the GIL, live music and community BBQ, it was all hands on deck and hundreds of people came along to enjoy the event The jolly fella in red even made an appearance much to the delight of all the kids and thanks to the Gilgandra Fire Brigade!”   

Council’s laneways activation project, with the theme of ‘Endless Possibilities’, has been funded through the NSW Government’s Streets as Shared Spaces program and trials the transformation of laneways and the riverside carpark into a shared zone and pedestrian friendly area, sparking ideas for new use of these spaces.

Mrs Larkin says,

“The idea of when pigs fly is an expression of the resilience and strength of our community, representing the endless possibilities available and the promise for future positive opportunities when we allow ourselves to think BIG.”

“With a number of transformational projects in the near future for Gilgandra Region there are plenty of opportunities for the community to think BIG! Including the new Library & Community Hub in Miller Street, the Coo-ee Heritage Centre and an upcoming opportunity for businesses to implement theirown initiatives with support through the $50,000 BIG Ideas program”.

The Business Improvement Grant (BIG Ideas) Program is a key part of the Grow Gilgandra program and has been established to stimulate economic development opportunities and investment in businesses in the Gilgandra Region. With applications opening soon in early 2021, businesses will be able to apply for two rounds of funding, up to $5,000 or up to $10,000 matched for business projects.

“We look forward to working with our local businesses on the Grow Gilgandra opportunities, and seeing some of the ideas come to life over the next few months” says Cr Walker.

Find out more about Grow Gilgandra, and the key initiatives available to local businesses through our website www.gilgandra.nsw.gov.au or if you have any feedback regarding this program email enjoy@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au.

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Contact:        
Kathryn Larkin
Marketing & Communications Manager
klarkin@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au
6817 8800

 

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