Made the Grampians Way campaign helping producers climb second lockdown mountain
A Grampians businesswoman is helping local producers stand out from the masses as online shopping reigns in locked-down Victoria. Here’s how she’s promoting the region.
NAVIGATING the second wave of coronavirus restrictions has been a mountain to climb for Carly Flecknoe.
But the Halls Gap local — who is at the helm of five different business ventures — has found a way to boost her fellow producers, with a campaign showcasing the best of the region.
In collaboration with Grampians Tourism, Ms Flecknoe is encouraging businesses that have a sustainable lifestyle story to brand their goods with a ‘Made the Grampians Way’ sticker or hashtag.
“I wanted to be able to celebrate sellers in the region,” Ms Flecknoe said.
“If you can’t come visit a farm gate or market but are still in a position to financially support those businesses then you can easily identify that they’re local.”
The social media campaign has already seen an encouraging level of uptake, and Ms Flecknoe said she could see a spike happening the longer people are stuck at home.
“There’s also an authenticity when people know when something comes from a local business, there’s better perception of the product and quality of the product” she said.
Ms Flecknoe is hoping it will help keep the economy pumping in Halls Gap and surrounds, with the latest lockdown feeling different than before.
“I’ve found the second one a lot tougher mentally. People saw the first one as a break or respite. Come around the second time, it’s hard to see where there will be a bounce back,” she said.
Government funding has been vital in keeping businesses afloat, and while Ms Flecknoe has had varying experiences with assistance for her cafe, shop and accommodation businesses, she said people would be more prepared this time around.
“Hopefully we see a lot more businesses survive and bounce back because they have a formula and know what works,” she said.
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