Townsville locals are being urged to back local businesses as shops, cafes and suppliers adjust their services in light of the endemic.
Many local businesses are feeling the effects of COVID-19 following the state borders reopening last month, leading to some businesses adapting their offerings and opening times.
Townsville City Council is encouraging residents and visitors to focus on putting their money back into the local economy.
“Local businesses are the heart and soul of our city, whether they’re eateries and boutiques, tourism experiences, business services, or any other number of business type,” Mayor Jenny Hill said.
“It’s imperative that we continue to support these businesses as COVID continues to impact them.
“I would recommend residents and visitors consider shopping local with Townsville-owned businesses to help bolster them during these difficult times.
“Every dollar counts towards ensuring our local business owners are able to keep their services running and continue to make Townsville a more vibrant and exciting place to live.”
Cr Hill said history had shown the Townsville community was able to band together and get through tough times.
“We know that we can survive difficult circumstances – we’ve done it before, and we’ll do it again. Our city is made up of supportive locals who are proud to support homegrown businesses,” she said.
“My thoughts are with business owners who are navigating this new normal, and I commend them for doing a great job across the past two years as we’ve dealt with the rolling changes from the COVID endemic.”
Townsville Chamber of Commerce CEO Ross McLennan said his team had a strong focus on putting local businesses first.
“As Townsville Chamber enters its 140th year, we will continue to promote local businesses and encourage everybody to Think, Support, Celebrate and Go Local,” Mr McLennan said.
“We all know it is the right thing to do and the multiplier effect of going local has on the economy but there has never been a more critical time to change those purchasing behaviors.
“It’s critical to think local with not only retail but also when it comes to other services. Things like professional services, engineering, your accountant, legal advice just to name a few. Small behavioral changes with purchasing decisions can make a big difference to local businesses and our city.”
Support Local Townsville was founded in 2016 by Kellie Stephenson.
Ms Stephenson said she was passionate about showcasing the local community, businesses, services, events and charities through networking and social media.
“During these unprecedented times, it is an absolute honour that Townsville City Council has jumped on board, an organisation with the means to be able to take it to the next level in showcasing and supporting our local business community,” Ms Stephenson said.
“In true Aussie spirit, this exemplifies that our community is focused on collaboration over competition, and that we will work together in any way we possibly can to help protect and support those who need it the most right now.”
“We can all play our part in supporting local by share our experiences through social media with the hashtag #supportlocaltownsville and get behind our local small business community.”
