Shop Local - Successful Again

The Winter Father’s Day Shop Local was attended by a record number of stallholders. The day was not wet - hurray - but winter winds were still having their way with creating chilly weather. Fortunately people arrived with multiple layers of warmth and coffee shops did a good trade in hot drinks.

Rebecca Cocker and her daughter have volunteered to run Dungeons and Dragons at the Neighbourhood Centre. They were at the event with a raffle to raise money for the Neighbourhood Centre. Apart from running Dungeons and Dragons, Rebecca is a crafter who makes personalised glasses and other amazing items.

If you are interested in joining the group for Dungeons and Dragons, adults are Tuesdays nights with a charge of $5, and kids run on Thursdays at 4pm. This game encourages people to explore their imagination on a paper based dice game.

Sue and daughter Michelle were there with an absolute eye-watering amount of buttons which they sell to raise money for craft items. Sue runs the Craft Connections at the Co-Operating Churches in Churchill where she shares her goods with those who wish to learn a new craft or use their own materials. Sue is also a valuable volunteer at the St Matts Op Shop in Yinnar.

The Lifeline ladies were there to open the shop, which is usually closed on Saturdays. They reported that they had opened their door to many customers and added funds to help the Lifeline programs. If you are new to the area, they are open at 11a Georgina Place, just down from the Post Office, from 9.30 am - 3.30 pm Mondays to Fridays. They accept donations ONLY in the hours the shop is open.

1st Churchill Scouts were there running their raffle. They are trying hard to raise money to refurbish the Scout Hall which is in desperate need of some TLC (tender loving care). They have been applying for grants as well, but are so thankful the community is getting behind them.

Entertainment was provide by Fairy Merrin doing balloon sculptures, Rachael with her Fantastic Facepainting, the 350s Blues band under Peter Gray and Chris and Sandra busking.

Thank you to Woolworths for providing the sausages, bread and sauces which the Churchill Fire Brigade and Churchill Lions cooked for everyone’s enjoyment. Woolworths also provided the free fruit.

A Shop Local market does not just happen. It takes planning, communication, registering stallholders and promotions. The market committee has welcomed Pauline Lee who has volunteered to the role of Market Co-ordinator. Thanks Pauline. The market was a success and we look forward to your further engagement as

Special thanks must also go to the Churchill Neighbourhood Centre and their volunteers for all their behind the scenes and on the day efforts. It is reassuring to know the market will proceed into the future with Pauline, the Neighbourhood Centre and Churchill & District News behind it.