It is now less than two weeks to Christmas and Dubbo is really embracing the festive spirit.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Council has worked hard to give the city a very Christmassy feel and I really think they succeeded.
From the fantastic display at the rotunda, through to the present decorations on bins and flags up Macquarie Street, it looks great.
I attended the launch of Smile, it’s Christmas in Dubbo and Jingle on the Bell in Wellington.
Both events were well-attended and the displays were fantastic.
I really believe these kind of celebrations are important for communities.
Kids love every opportunity to meet Santa and a great Christmas Light display and tree sticks with them.
That is why I think it is brilliant Dubbo embraces it so much, while other towns and cities are happy to let the festive season pass with little effort.
As well as the decorations, council is also working on promotions that will boost the Christmas feel around the city.
There is the 12 Days of Giveaways which includes the CBD Elf going around and surprising shoppers with gifts at participating businesses, while businesses across both Dubbo and Wellington are encouraged to get into the business window decorating competition.
There is a top prize of $1500 on offer, with $1000 and $500 for second and third respectively.
It’s great to see the shops getting into the spirit so good luck to everyone who is participating in that.
We know that Christmas is a critical time for our retail sector.
One of the best things Dubbo could hope for at the moment is a successful Christmas period for its retail industry.
The drought has tested everyone in 2018 and when money is tight for the agricultural sector, it has a flow-on effect.
Thankfully Dubbo has remained strong during this time and I believe that is because people have stayed faithful and shopped locally to support our retailers.
This is important to remember, especially around Christmas time when we are spending so much money on gifts and events.
Buying online guarantees your money leaves Dubbo and will never come back.
However showing your support to local retailers and businesses will see that money continue to circulate here.
There is evidence that shows for every dollar spent, it generates another 80 cents within the community.
Everyone wants a good deal, and things as cheap as possible, but before going to one of the online giants, consider walking into your local stores first and give them a chance.
Talk to them and they may be able to work to get a better price for you.
Dubbo is blessed to have a variety of shops so there should always be somewhere that has what you are looking for.
And not only that, but as Christmas gets closer you run the risk of your gifts not being delivered in time.
It’s hardly worth saving a few dollars if you don’t have that present to give someone on Christmas morning.
One of Dubbo’s biggest strengths is a resilient economy, even if events like the current drought test that.
If our economy is strong, that is good for everyone.
With that in mind, before hitting ‘add to cart’ on that toy for the kids, DVD box set for mum or pair of socks for dad, jump in the car, head to the shops and see what you find.
Australia day awards
On a slightly different topic don’t forget to nominate someone for the upcoming Australia Day Awards.
If you know someone who you think may be worthy and deserves some recognition please take the time to nominate them.
Visit www.dubbo.nsw.gov.aufor a nomination form.
Nominations close 5pm Monday 14 January 2019.