Please note: this is an old article
It was published in July 2012, so the information may be out-of-date.
Greater Shepparton City Council is helping traders in Mooroopna’s CBD attract new shoppers with a new “buy local” campaign, with help from State Government funding.
Mooroopna traders extended their hours during their popular Farmers' Markets in July and will do so again in August. Over the duration of the promotion, lucky shoppers will receive $3,400 worth of "Mooroopna Money" vouchers to spend at local shops.
The initiative is the result of a partnership between Mooroopna traders and Greater Shepparton City Council, as part of Councils' overall commitment to building economic development in the municipality.
Around twenty participating traders were on Sunday morning July 15 to welcome visitors to Mooroopna.
"With funding from the State Government's ‘Putting Locals First' program, we hope to generate a real buzz around the CBD in Mooroopna again during the Farmers' Market 19 August," said Mayor of Greater Shepparton City Council Michael Polan.
"People come into the markets who might not otherwise shop in the area, and traders who would ordinarily be closed on a Sunday morning are opening their doors to show the shoppers what Mooroopna has to offer," Cr Polan said.
"We'll be having giveaways throughout the morning at the market of ‘Mooroopna Money' vouchers to be spent with participating traders that day," he said. Live music will also be provided in McLennan Street, to add to the festive atmosphere.
The initiative is the result of an exciting partnership between the local businesses, Council and State Government, Cr Polan said.
"We hope to encourage community support for local businesses in Mooroopna, so that locals and people travelling through ask themselves the question, why go further?
"Local traders have an extensive range of products and we hope that people will consider purchasing locally before driving elsewhere for their shopping. Business owners have embraced the role that they can play in encouraging commerce in Mooroopna."
Entry forms to be eligible for the "Mooroopna Money" vouchers can be found at participating traders in McLennan Street, Mooroopna.