The business and arts communities are joining forces to bring some bustle and post-lockdown energy into the main streets in the lead-up to Christmas.
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The Live Local Be Local campaign is a joint project launched this week by Wagga's community leaders, who will each be coming up with different ways to attract foot traffic back into the CBD.
One of them is Eastern Riverina Arts, which will be filling abandoned shopfront windows with colourful artworks and holding an assortment of art events up and down the main street.
Director Tim Kurlyowicz said it was their way of giving residents a reason to get out of their homes, have a day out in the town, and visit Wagga's local shops while they are at it.
"We will work with local creatives and shop owners to develop sustainable businesses in our main streets, boost activity and foot traffic and activate empty or underutilised spaces," Dr Kurylowicz said.
"There are big returns for Wagga Wagga if we can facilitate more local creative products, exhibitions, and events across our CBD, while supporting and nurturing people who are building their creative businesses right here."
Wagga Business Chamber are meeting with shopkeepers to come up with various activities along the main streets, and they are currently filling their calendars with plans for the next 12 months.
They will be negotiating with Wagga City Council to bring some of their wares out of their stores and onto the main street to create a busier, more bustling streetscape.
Chamber president Rhyley Hunter said the ideas had come thick and fast from shopkeepers who were keen to entice more potential shoppers out of their homes and onto the streets.
"Activation of the heart of our city requires economic, environmental, social and cultural elements to truly make it a vibrant and attractive precinct," Mr Hunter said.
"We encourage businesses to reach out to discuss their ideas and concepts as we assist in the development of a long-term plan."
Wagga City Council's regional activation director Michael Keys said this would the first campaign of its kind, and one that would give businesses a much-needed boost after being dealt a rough hand by coronavirus.
"The initial shock of social distancing, quarantining, and shutdowns due to COVID-19 have taken a toll," Mr Keys said.
"Now it's time to look ahead to how we reconnect with our community. Our goal is to not just recover from a global catastrophe, but to come out the other side as a stronger region."
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Sculpted Jewels owner Roley McIntyre said shopkeepers had really come together in solidarity during this time of crisis, showing support for one another when they needed it the most.
She said shoppers had also done their part to help out their local businesses, especially as the Christmas gift-buying season hits full stride.
"There's been a great show of support from the locals who are shopping local and supporting the local businesses," Ms McIntyre said.
"The best part has been connecting with all the businesses in the precinct, connecting with everybody, and working together to keep the energy up and build some excitement."
More events will be unveiled over the next 12 months by the campaign's members, which include Wagga Business Chamber, Wagga Women in Business, Committee 4 Wagga, Charles Sturt University, BEC Business Advisors, Eastern Riverina Arts, Regional Development Australia, the Bridge Hub, and Wagga City Council.