On Wednesday 7 October 2020 a morning tea was held at the Roxy Theatre to congratulate the applicants in the southern end of the shire who were successful in obtaining funds from the Bushfire Recovery Makeover Grant. The grant aims to improve the appearance of shop fronts in the Gwydir Shire.
Mayor John Coulton was present and congratulated the candidates on being successful in obtaining the grant funding and was joined by General Manager Max Eastcott to present the applicants with a Certificate of Congratulations.
Recipients who were able to attend the morning tea spoke of what they will do with the funds and how it will benefit their business.
Jacqualine Breneger from Sew Much More will finish the outside of her shop with promotional signage on the windows and awnings.
Gail List from Bingara Wattle Arts and Crafts will replace the wooden panel entrance with a glass door to go with the original arte déco theme of the shop.
Gerry Amer and John Sullivan were present from the Bingara Sporting Club and will be using the grant for signage on the front of the club.
Samantha Bermel from Sapphire Salt Cave will be replacing the pressed metal on the awning space out the front of the shop.
Leonie Southwell from Bingara McGregor Gourlay will be using the grant to purchase a large TV to be used as an electronic billboard to display advertising and promotional material.
Gwydir Shire Council Marketing and Economic Development Manager, Chris Turner said that the program has received a lot of interest. “Although Council was unable to fund every single submission, every submission deserved funding, which is a great testament to the business owners and their commitment to the community. We’re looking forward to seeing the finished projects and are currently exploring more ways Council can support local businesses.”
Mr Turner went on to point out that October is Small Business Month and that as part of activities to mark the month Council will be out and about talking to local business owners and exploring ways Council can work with the business community to strengthen the local economy. A morning tea will be held in Warialda on Friday 16th October to celebrate the successful applicants from the northern end of the shire.
