Christmas_hamper_giveaway1.1Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett is encouraging families to spread the festive cheer to local businesses and buy locally, and he is leading by example.

Mr Bennett has kicked off the ‘Buy Locally this Festive Season’ campaign to support local businesses and provide a boost to the region by purchasing locally produced Christmas goodies for hampers which he will give away.

Three lucky families will soon be enjoying a hamper filled with local goodies – one each for a winner in the Agnes Water, Miriam Vale and Baffle Creek area; one for the Isis district; and one for the Bundaberg, Bargara and coast area.

“The Christmas season has well and truly begun and local businesses, particularly small businesses operated by the mums and dads in our region, need our support,” Mr Bennett said.

“I wanted to spread a bit of Christmas cheer while encouraging people to support local businesses and buy locally,” Mr Bennett said.

“We are fortunate to have some great local producers, and these hampers showcase some of the best. I’ve compiled an assortment of local products including a ham, tasty nibbles, jams and sauces, dried fruit and nuts – a whole range of tempting festive treats! And better yet, it’s all from the Wide Bay and Burnett.

Mr Bennett said small businesses are the engine room of our district, driving innovation, employment and economic progress.

“The benefits of supporting local businesses and shopping locally cannot be underestimated.

“When you shop locally, your money stays locally, with one dollar spent at a local business returning up to five times that amount through employee wages, rates and the purchase of materials and supplies.”

Entering Mr Bennett’s Christmas hamper competition is simple. All you need to do is provide your name, address, email address and mobile number to the Burnett Electorate Office.
Mr Bennett said entries are open to residents in the Burnett and Bundaberg electorates. Entries close on December 15 at midnight.
The draw will take place on December 16 at midday, and winners will be contacted immediately.
Hampers can be collected from Stephen’s office or delivery can be arranged.
Enter at www.stephenbennettmp.com.au/contact/ No internet access? Contact the Burnett Electorate Office on 4159 1988 or send your name, address and contact number to Stephen Bennett MP, PO Box 8371, Bargara 4670 before the closing date.