Chamber spreads Christmas cheer
Spreading the cheer: Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry members Peter Watchorn, Sandra Fleming, Kathy Smith and president Darryl McGannon all played a part in erecting a grand Christmas tree.
THE Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry is painting the town red – not to mention white, green and every other yuletide colour.
Chamber vice-president Tony Giles said it was all about spreading the Christmas cheer and helping people realise if they shopped locally, they ensured the future success of their town.
To this end the traders have decorated Leongatha with ribbons, garland and an exquisitely adorned Christmas tree outside the old courthouse building.
Unfortunately, a vandal chose to spoil the effect by tearing the tree down. But, reflective of the Christmas spirit, it is again standing proud – resurrected by a group of dedicated traders.
“The chamber has responded to the call and this year has gone to great lengths to decorate the CBD of Leongatha,” Mr Giles said.
“I have already received many comments about the decorations. It has really given the town a buzz and started off the month of December really well.
“The chamber has gone for a grant from the South Gippsland Shire and I hope it is successful as the decorations have cost a considerable amount of money.”
Mr Giles said it was important for shoppers to get the message that spending in Leongatha was an investment in the town.
“I totally agree with recent comments by traders that people really need to think local when they shop this Christmas. In fact, shopping locally should apply all the time,” he said.
“The retailers can also play their part by making sure the shopper has a great experience in their stores by having courteous, friendly and helpful staff, being able to provide the product required and being willing to go out of their way to help.
“The experience a shopper has in a store will be remembered. If they have a good experience they will tell others, but if they have a bad experience they will probably tell more.”
This year the chamber is offering five lucky shoppers the chance to share in a Christmas tree decorated with shopping vouchers.
Entry to the competition is available through purchase of goods from participating chamber member shops. The promotion ends on Sunday, December 23. The more you shop in town, the greater chance you have to win.
The traders are also gearing up for a huge ‘sidewalk sale’ on Saturday, December 15 from 9am to 2pm, with discounted items up for grabs. Christmas carols will be performed on the day, and Apex will hold a sausage sizzle.
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