Thanks a Million: Janelle’s push for Tassie businesses recognised with nomination for News Corp Australia campaign

Nominations are open for News Corp Australia’s Thanks a Million campaign, which shines a light on everyone who did their bit during the coronavirus crisis, with a local who gave back to several business owners nominated. NOMINATE NOW >>

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NOMINATIONS are open for News Corp Australia’s Thanks a Million campaign, with a Hobart woman who helped business owners through the early stages of the COVID-19 crisis among those recognised.

Janelle Larkin decided to use her marketing and networking know-how for the good of others when the pandemic reached Tasmania.

What started as her Plug A Business Tasmania Facebook group to promote small businesses locally has now grown into a streamlined and easy to navigate website called Buy From Tasmania.

Janelle Larkin has been nominated for a Thanks A Million award. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

The online marketplace features local makers of food, art, jewellery and clothes for shoppers to pick and choose products from Tasmanian sellers and have them delivered.

Ms Larkin said there was no commission or ulterior motive for setting up the service other than to help people through a tough time and assist locals in their quest to buy local.

“Each time there’s a sale everyone celebrates behind the scenes, the feedback’s been quite amazing,” she said.

“There’s that camaraderie that I’m sure happens at actual markets as well between vendors.”

To keep the website operating into the future, Ms Larkin said she hoped a $99 yearly fee to sell on the site will cover maintenance.

The Thanks a Million campaign shines a light on everyone from essential workers to helpful neighbours who did their bit during coronavirus.

If you know someone who deserves our thanks, nominate them today.

Originally published as Thanks a Million: Janelle’s push for Tassie businesses recognised with nomination for News Corp Australia campaign