The Douglas Chamber of Commerce has launched a “Buy Local This Christmas” campaign to encourage local spending in the lead up to Christmas. 

Local businesses in the region have been encouraged to put forth the ‘ideal Christmas gift’ to the Chamber to be promoted throughout the region. 

Chamber representatives said that with many shoppers strapped for time ahead of the festive season, it may often appear easier to travel to Cairns and do the “one stop shop”, but the businesses involved in the campaign have taken the initiative to propose an easy and affordable gift idea for all locals – keeping dollars in the region and businesses in full swing at the end of peak season.

“We have had some fabulous gift ideas put forward including dinner vouchers for restaurants, gift hampers for food outlets, wonderful handcrafted gifts, discounted and packaged tour options as well as photography packages”, said Chamber spokesperson Martin Tranter. 

“It’s a wonderful initiative by the Chamber to not only keep our money in the Douglas Shire, but to promote local business to the community in general. The Chamber want to be clear that they are here for local business, small, medium or large and just want to see our local economy thrive,” said Mr Tranter. 

“So before you head to Cairns and shop away, make sure you head to the new Chamber website and check out the Buy Local This Christmas page – just go to www.douglaschamber.com.au.”

Anyone wanting to get involved in the campaign can email members@douglaschamber.com.au with full details of their best Christmas gift idea, the cost, and image and logo as well as the preferred method of purchase. 

Posting on Facebook or Twitter with the #BuyLocalThisChristmas tag will also support the campaign.