DECEMBER is a busy time of year for everyone as we attempt to get things at work tided up before taking leave and spending time with friends and family, but it’s important to take the time to remember the true spirit of Christmas and help those in our community who might be doing it tough.
I am grateful to be in a position to donate to local appeals across Barker at Christmas; initiatives like the long standing City of Mount Gambier Mayor’s Community Christmas Appeal where donations are collected and distributed locally.
Donations to the appeal are distributed through the Christmas Cheer Program delivered by local Limestone Coast service providers including Uniting Care, ac.care, Lifeline, St Vincent De Paul and the Salvation Army.
Demand for additional support at Christmas means these regular services are stretched but local donations at this time of year make a tangible difference boosting these services for local Limestone Coast families who need a helping hand at Christmas.
Christmas is also a time when we can help our local small businesses by making the effort to ‘Go Local First’ when purchasing products and services this festive season.
Small businesses are the backbone of our national economy and the heartbeat of our local communities, this is particularly the case in regional Australia.
They contribute over a third of Australia’s GDP and employ nearly half of Australia’s workforce.
Small businesses often give a local young person their first job or apprenticeship.
They are great supporters of local charities and sporting clubs, sponsoring teams and donating goods and services.
When we buy and spend locally in the Limestone Coast, we’re supporting local Limestone Coast jobs and we are also helping the local community to thrive because when you spend locally, your dollars continue to spin around the local Limestone Coast economy.
From buying gifts for family and friends to enjoying great food and wine this Christmas and New Year, go the extra effort to source local goods from our local producers and retailers.
After all, some of the highest quality food and wine is grown and produced right here in the Limestone Coast.
Let’s make this festive season a great time of year in the Limestone Coast for the whole community by supporting local charities and small businesses along the way.
Tony Pasin
Member for Barker
