‘Local First’ campaign hits Hervey Bay
AS CHRISTMAS approaches, local State and Federal MPs are encouraging the community to put money back into the pockets of small businesses, primary producers, retailers, hospitality and tourism operators across Hervey Bay.
AS CHRISTMAS approaches, local State and Federal MPs are encouraging the community to put money back into the pockets of small businesses, primary producers, retailers, hospitality and tourism operators across Hervey Bay.
Federal Member for Hinkler, David Batt, has joined forces with the State Member for Hervey Bay, David Lee, and the State Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett, to launch the 2025 ‘Local First’ campaign.
The initiative will run across social media, radio, and other platforms, aiming to spotlight homegrown businesses in the lead-up to the festive season.
Mr Batt said the campaign is about putting the community and local economy first.
“Let’s support those in our own backyard first. If we all do our bit and choose ‘local first’ it will go a long way in supporting our economy.”
State Member for Hervey Bay David Lee highlighted the crucial role small and family-owned businesses play in the region.
“It’s not the government that creates jobs, its small businesses. Please get behind our local first campaign and shop, buy, dine and eat local first,” Mr Lee said.
Mr Bennett, the State Member for Burnett, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the year-round importance of local businesses.
“Our local small and family businesses drive our economy and support our community 365 days a year,” Mr Bennett said.
“They’re the biggest employer in the region so let’s get behind them this festive season and shop, dine, and explore all they have to offer.”
The campaign, runs from mid-November to 12 December 2025, encourages locals to actively support their communities through a simple mantra:
DINE local first.
SHOP local first.
BUY local first.
DRINK local first.
VISIT local first.
EAT local first.
CHOOSE local first.
Residents can join the movement and share their support online using the hashtag #LocalFirst, while businesses interested in promoting the campaign can register and request posters via Local First – David Batt MP (davidbatt.com.au).
By choosing local, the community ensures that the benefits of every purchase stay close to home, helping to sustain jobs, families, and the vibrant Fraser Coast economy during the festive season and beyond.
