Sunday and public holiday trading in Warwick and Stanthorpe is still on track to commence from next Wednesday 12 July.
As reported earlier, the decision to allow Sunday trading for major retailers, including those in Warwick’s Rose City Shoppingworld, was handed down by the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission last month following a submission made by the Southern Downs Regional Council on behalf of the community.
A council statement released after the announcement noted Sunday trading in the Southern Downs’ urban centres “has for long been a discussion point in the community”.
“A growing tourism industry means visitors seeking access to retail facilities they would normally have in South East Queensland,” the statement said.
“Changing working patterns of local residents makes Sunday trading an action supported by many.
“Both Warwick and Stanthorpe Chambers of Commerce have previously stated their support for Sunday trading.
“Research in similar regional and tourism towns showed that Sunday trading increased visitation by residents and visitors, and prolonged the stay of visitors in the CBDs.
“Sunday trading led to an increase of trade by all participating retail outlets in these areas.
The council’s manager of Economic Development and Tourism Scott Templeman said the decision by the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission to grant extended trading hours to Warwick and Stanthorpe was “a positive step forward for both centres”.
“The Southern Downs has approximately 800,000 visitors each year, and many of them come from areas where there is already extended trading hours,” Mr Templeman said.
“When they visit the Southern Downs, they expect to have the same shopping experience as they have at home.
“The extended trading hours will help the local economy and the extended hours will provide residents with more job opportunities and more hours and shifts in the region’s retail sector.
“Retail is one of the region’s major employers.
“Smaller independent retailers, who have always been able to open on Saturday afternoon and Sundays can choose now to open and take advantage of the extra foot traffic the major stores will generate.
“The Southern Downs Regional Council’s Economic Development Unit will work with the Chambers of Commerce to deliver workshops for their members and other traders on how best to manage extended hours.
“Traders can keep track of these workshops on the council website or through their Chambers.”
Southern Downs Mayor Tracy Dobie says seven-day trading in Warwick and Stanthorpe would be “a boon for local business and tourism operators”.
“In an increasingly competitive marketplace, our region will no longer be at a distinct disadvantage compared to other regions,” Cr Dobie said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing an increase in trading and visitor numbers.”
