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Christmas shoppers this year are being urged to bring a little cheer into Bendigo’s businesses by shopping locally this Christmas.
Today marks the launch of the Twinkle Twinkle Bendigo – Keeping Christmas Local campaign which will see shopfronts light up with stunning decorations, vying for first place in the friendly competition.
Bendigo Business Council CEO Leah Sertori said the warmth and creativity local businesses had demonstrated the true Christmas spirit.
“Our retailers create a memorable Christmas experience for our community and collect gifts for children who may otherwise miss out. Shoppers have the power to contribute to this experience and give back to their local community too,” she said.
“When you buy your Christmas presents from a small business you are putting t-shirts on your local sporting team, food on the table for local charities and much needed equipment for our hospital.
“Small businesses in Bendigo contribute so much to the fabric of our community. Their contribution to sport, education and health organisations in our city is a much larger percentage of their turnover than the big multi-nationals.
“So with that in mind I would encourage our community to get behind local retailers this Christmas.”
City of Greater Bendigo major events manager Terry Karamaloudis said the Christmas spending period was arguably one of the most important times of the year for local traders.
“It is a significant time for our economy and therefore even more important that before we decide to spend a dollar, we look locally and see where can find goods … to support local businesses,” he said.
“It’s fair to say the internet is one attraction, but there are lots of places to spend in Bendigo.”
He joined with Bendigo Business Council CEO Leah Sertori in pointing out the upcoming Bendigo Street Festival, along with the Twinkle Twinkle campaign, gave locals plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festive feel in the city.
Businesses will have the chance to win a $3,000 advertising package courtesy of the Bendigo Advertiser and 3BO FM, presenters of the campaign along with the City of Greater Bendigo.
Businesses can enter the small business category (fewer than 10 employees) or the larger business category.
A public vote on the Bendigo Advertiser website from December 11 to 18 will determine the best displays and winners will be announced on December 19.
Voters can also win a $200 GoTix prize, which can be redeemed at the Ulumbarra and Capitol theatres.
To register, click here. Registration closes Thursday, December 10.