Bag a bargain at annual Stawell spree

Organisers of a Stawell shopping spree on Friday night have encouraged the region’s residents to bag a bargain while supporting an important cause.

Stawell Regional Health Y-zetts president Meg Blake said the organisation’s annual ‘local shopping spree’, now in its 15th year, was a win-win situation for all involved.

“This is a wonderful community event that has been well supported for many years,” she said.

“The concept is to encourage people to ‘shop local’ and keep money in the region.

“The event also raises money for the Stawell hospital.”

Participating traders will offer up to 20 percent off across their stores, with some offering up to 50 percent off specific items.

Mrs Blake said 17 businesses had signed up for this year’s event. “It is just so much fun,” she said. “Last year we had 230 shoppers, which is a lot of foot traffic for businesses.

“People can shop the week prior and put things aside, but they aren’t allowed to buy them until the night.

“Then on the night they might find other things they like. Also, they might be lucky enough to win one of the $25 vouchers donated by each business, which means they will enter the shop again.”

The shopping spree starts at 6pm and tickets cost $20 from participating stores.

Mrs Blake said last year’s spree raised more than $5500 for the hospital.

“It is an important fundraiser,” she said.

“This year the money will go towards a orthopaedic saw.

“We’re doing a lot of hips and things at the hospital now and surgeons require the best technology.

“The more procedures we can do in the region, rather than people having to travel away, the better.”

Mrs Blake attributed the event’s longevity to widespread support from businesses and the community.

“Northern Grampians Shire Council has been supporting us this year, which is great, and we are also grateful to the media for getting the word out,” she said.