Buy Local gift card reaches 200 milestone

Ray and Melissa Earle (father and daughter) surrounded by memorabilia in Earle’s Pant Place – is looking forward to being a part of the Fraser Coast Gift Card program.

The 200th business has joined the Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Buy Local campaign.

Long-standing Maryborough business, Earle’s Paint Place, has joined the network that will accept the Buy Local Gift Cards.

Fraser Coast Gift Cards are the cornerstone of Council’s Open for Business Buy Local campaign, which was introduced in response to COVID-19, Mayor George Seymour said.

“Buying local is the best way for people to support Fraser Coast businesses, it’s great for local jobs and great for our local communities,” he said.

“Every $100 spent locally provides at least a $180 benefit to the local economy through the multiplier effect which is why we’re urging everyone to get behind this campaign and support local businesses.”

Businesses from Tiaro, Maryborough and Hervey Bay are involved in the program.

Melissa White, the granddaughter of the Earle’s Paint Place founders believes joining the network will be a boost for the family business.

“We’ve been here for more than 70 years,” Melissa said.

“I believe that the card increases exposure for local businesses.

“I’ve seen people talking about the promotion on Facebook, so people are talking about it which is good for the businesses that are a part of the scheme.”

The gift card program, which has been running since December 2020, encourages residents and visitors to shop locally to help build a stronger united Fraser Coast business community.

“We’d love even more local businesses to get involved,” Cr Seymour said.

The program has been backed by the Tiaro, Maryborough and Hervey Bay Chambers of Commerce.

The ‘Open for Business Buy Local’ campaign was developed following feedback from local businesses and was part of the Council’s efforts to stimulate the Fraser Coast economy following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Businesses interested in joining the program can sign up through the Council webpage via www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/open-business-buy-local-fraser-coast  or email economic.development@frasercoast.qld.gov.au.

“The gift cards are great for any celebration and make a great birthday or Christmas gift, including for Secret Santa.

“Anyone can buy a card at any time.”

For more information including a full list of participating business and reload stores go to - frasercoastgiftcard.com.