December is here, and the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ODCCI) is kicking off the festive season with colour, cheer and plenty of community spirit.
After another big year, the chamber is encouraging everyone to celebrate Christmas the Orbost way — to get involved in all of the Christmas festivities and by supporting the local businesses that keep the town thriving.
ODCCI president Sammi Reynolds said this year’s message is simple: local choices make a big difference.
“We know the cost of living continues to bite, but even small purchases made locally add up. We understand that whilst not everything can be found in town, it’s important to look local first,” Ms Reynolds said.
When we shop close to home, we’re supporting jobs, services and the businesses who always show up for our community – our clubs, events, fundraisers and families.”
If you’re looking for a no-stress gift, the chamber gift card is the perfect option.
These Eftpos-style cards can be used at around 30 businesses in Orbost and Marlo, giving recipients the freedom to support multiple local stores.
Gift cards are available at Andrews Land and Surf, with loadable amounts from $10 to $1000, with transactions at businesses being able to be spread across all member businesses.
The town’s festive glow has arrived:
– Main Street decorations were completed on Monday, December 1, lighting up the heart of Orbost with colour and Christmas spirit.
– The beloved Tarra Street Christmas tree was finished recently, once again made possible through the generosity of local business owners Darren Downey and Tim Grenfell, who donate their time and support to help get the decorations up along with a
handful of volunteers who braved the cold conditions.
This year’s trees decorations this year have had a transformation with a small group giving them a refresh.
The Lucky Shopper campaign has kicked off, giving locals even more reasons to shop close to home this December.
Anyone who spends over $20 at participating businesses will go into the draw to win.
Three weekly draws of $100 will take place on Friday December 5, 12 and 19, winners will be notified by phone and advertised on social media and the major prize draw will take place at the Orbost Christmas Eve Festival, with $500, $200 and $100 chamber vouchers up for grabs.
Christmas lights map
Get ready to see Orbost shine.
The Christmas lights map will be published in the December 17 and 24 editions of the Snowy River Mail.
Homes wishing to be included on the map should have their decorations up between up until December 13 when volunteers drive the town to create the map.
Public voting has been removed this year with a secret voter in place.
This year’s categories are:
– Best overall
– Novice
– Best decorated garden (doesn’t have to have lights/ can include inflatables)
– Best decorated tree (in garden or in window)
Santa Letters
Following on from the positive response last year, local children can write to Santa and receive a personal reply.
The bright red postal box has been rolled out of storage and is now sitting out the front of Andrew’s Land and Surf.
Families can pick up a free letter template from in store, have their children complete them, then post them into the Santa Letter Box by COB Monday, December 15.
To make sure Santa’s reply finds its way back, please include the child’s full name and address.
This festive project is a reminder that Christmas in Orbost is all about community, connection and creating moments of magic.
By getting involved — whether it’s writing to Santa, shopping local, or enjoying the town’s celebrations, everyone can help make this season brighter for the young and the young at heart.
