TOWNSVILLE PEOPLE URGED TO ENJOY FRUITS OF BUYING LOCAL
TOWNSVILLE residents are being urged to buy local to help support the city’s businesses reeling from the economic fallout from the pandemic.
Many local businesses are feeling the strain from Covid-19 following the state borders reopening last month, leading to some businesses adapting their offerings and opening times.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the Townsville City Council was 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,” Ms Hill said.
“It’s imperative that we continue to support these businesses as Covid continues to impact them.
“Lamberts Fresh Produce is one of our better-known fruit, vegetable and meat suppliers here in Townsville and we are trying to encourage people not to panic buy during this Covid period.
“There are many local businesses like this one who have access to local suppliers and who are able to fulfil the needs of our community.”
She said the past two years had been hard for local businesses.
“We have already seen a number of hospitality businesses go to the wall. “If you need something can I ask Townsville community to look local first.”
Townsville Chamber of Commerce CEO Ross Mclennan said his team had a strong focus on putting local businesses first.
“The chamber will continue to promote local businesses and encourage everybody to think, support, celebrate and go local,” Mr Mclennan an said.
Support Local Townsville was founded in 2016 by Kellie Stephenson who said she was passionate onate about showcasing the local cal community, businesses, services, es, events and charities through networking and social media.
Lamberts Fresh h Produce owner Michael Burge urged ged the community to support local businesses. usinesses.
“Everybody in Townsville can’t shop at Lamberts but everybody can support a local in some way or another,” he said. “There are restaurants, there are coffee shops there are other smaller fruit shops and they are all being run by mum and dads, all run by real people.”