The Warwick and Stanthorpe Chambers of Commerce are excited to announce the official launch of the Shop Local Southern Downs and Granite Belt initiative, previously known as Why Leave Town Stanthorpe and Warwick. Thanks to generous support from the Queensland Government’s Local Led Recovery Program funding and Southern Downs Regional Council, this program now covers the entire Southern Downs and Granite Belt local government area, uniting businesses and consumers with a shared goal of keeping money circulating within our local economy.
What is Shop Local Southern Downs and Granite Belt?
The Shop Local initiative allows customers to purchase Why Leave Town gift cards, which are exclusively used at participating businesses within the Southern Downs and Granite Belt regions. When someone buys and uses these cards, they’re directly supporting their local community, ensuring the money stays right here in our region.
Exclusive Local Gift Cards
What sets this program apart is that each gift card is locked to a specific group of local businesses. This means a card purchased in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt the funds STAY in the Southern Downs and Granite Belt. Both physical gift cards and digital options (that can be added to your phone wallet for a small fee) are available, making it easier than ever to give a gift of local.
A Free Initiative for Members – and a Great Reason to Join Your Local Chamber
Participation in the Shop Local Southern Downs and Granite Belt initiative is FREE for all Chamber of Commerce members. Non-members can join for a small fee, providing an excellent opportunity for local businesses to grow their customer base while supporting the local economy. This is a great time to join your local chamber and take advantage of this cost-effective initiative to engage with your community.
Calling All Local Businesses and Shoppers
The first aim of this initiative is to encourage as many local businesses as possible to sign up and participate. Secondly, we want to see consumers embracing these gift cards for all sorts of occasions – whether it’s raffle prizes, gifts for family, or even Christmas presents! The cards are a perfect solution for anyone looking to give a thoughtful, practical gift while supporting local businesses.
A Boost for the Local Economy
“This initiative is a brilliant way to back local businesses, especially as we gear up for the holiday season,” said Teilah Mckelvey, Warwick Chamber of Commerce Secretary “By using a Shop Local gift card, you’re making a real impact on our community, ensuring your money stays local and helps our region flourish.”
Gratitude for Community Support
This initiative would not have been possible without the invaluable support from the Queensland Government’s Local Led Recovery Program funding and the Southern Downs Regional Council. Their backing ensures that this program remains accessible and beneficial to all local businesses and residents, helping to create a stronger and more resilient local economy.
Join Today and Shop Local
For more information on how your business can get involved, or to purchase a gift card, please visit www.warwickqld.com.au and soon www.stanthorpecoc.com.au/ OR contact the Warwick or Stanthorpe Chambers of Commerce.
Together, we can make a real difference in strengthening the Southern Downs and Granite Belt economy. Love where you live, Shop where you love.
