Published by: The Border Watch
YOU'VE heard it many times but now is really the time to support local.
Our hospitality, retail and fitness businesses have been through some of the toughest times during the last two years and are still dealing with density restrictions.
It's really crushing to see an empty dining room which is normally buzzing with people or a 'closed' sign on a local business.
We'd all like to see the back of masks, restrictions, close contacts and a return to normal (whatever that is) times.
But all of us can have a collective impact.
Choosing to spend your money locally, whenever possible, is a great way to give back to our community.
In Adelaide, there's been a campaign by the Liberal Government to entice people back into the city with $30 dining vouchers and FOMO Friday events.
I'm sure our regional businesses would appreciate this level of support also from our State Government.
A man who always has the 'support local' approach is Mount Gambier's Bill Burley.
When footy clubs and cancer support groups need a little help, he's always there to stick his hand up and lend his support.
After the many fires our region has had, it was Bill who organised CFS Month at the club, with event proceeds and special fundraising to go to the CFS groups involved in the fires Mount Gambier, Kingsley and Wattle Range.
So far, he's raised more than $10,000 for the cause, which is just fantastic.
It's testament to the Limestone Coast community that we all step up and help out in times of need.
A little support goes a long way.
Troy Bell, Member for Mount Gambier.