Surf Coast Times
Tuesday 13 April 2010
VOL 8. No 15
www.surfcoasttimes.com.au
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Kelly Slater overcame a nagging ankle injury and reigning world champion, Mick Fanning, to win his fourth Rip Curl Pro title. A nine-time world champion, Slater’s victory adds to his 1994, 2006 and 2008 triumphs. See full story and more ERIK HOLT photographs in sport.
Photo: ERIK HOLT
KEEP IT LOCAL Surf Coast businesses and residents are being urged to get behind a new initiative that aims to support local retailers, manufacturers, suppliers and producers
BY NATHAN HALE A NEW campaign aimed at encouraging people to shop locally is set to be launched in Torquay. Transition Torquay is behind the push to produce a Live Local Shop Local publication, which will showcase the goods and services on offer throughout the region. The concept already has the backing of the Surf Coast Shire and the Torquay Commerce and Tourism Association. Transition Torquay’s Julia Brangwyn, said the idea was to encourage people to “discover and enjoy the vast array of local Surf Coast goods and services�. “We want to help people find what they need locally with the added bonus of reducing carbon emissions from transport,� she said.
“There is so much quality produce on our doorstep or at the farm gate it deserves to be showcased to local residents as well as tourists. “This helps support other initiatives like the ‘Share the Bounty’ produce swap and the clothing swaps that have been happening in the region.� Transition Torquay is a community group who is raising awareness of peak oil and climate change issues, while looking to develop local solutions to global problems. The project has been funded through a community grant from Surf Coast Shire Council. “It’s a great initiative, because it not only supports local business and primary producers, but it also reduces the travel and greenhouse emissions involved in getting produce and goods delivered,� said shire mayor, Libby Coker.
Surf Forecast
“Buying locally reduces freight costs for consumers and greenhouse emissions used in transport. “It also puts money back into our region’s economy, so it makes a lot of sense to support the environment, local people and in the long run, your hip pocket. “If you’re a local producer, have a home-based business, a local artist or run a small business, I encourage you to get involved.� The project is in its infancy at the moment, and Brangwyn is keen to hear from all local producers who would like to be listed in the publication. She said businesses from every background were encouraged to submit their details – from farm-gate sellers, information technology specialists, home businesses, market stallholders, as well as goods such as food, plants, music, craft and gifts. Brangwyn said that apart from being a useful tool
for visitors to the region, the publication would also act as an important guide for locals. “I am sure there are a lot of people who live locally who don’t really know or appreciate the goods and services we have on offer in the region,� she said. “If we can get something out there that would let everyone know, it would be great for not only the local producers, but for the entire community.� Brangwyn also said a website to complement the printed publication is being considered. Any business interested in the project can pick up an application form from Torquay’s IGA supermarket notice board, from the Surf Coast Shire Offices or at Spring Creek Community House. Alternatively, they can email Julia Brangwyn at jgs@aapt.net.au or phone her on 0410 441 589. All applications need to be returned by April 30.
WED 2-3ft messy, WSW 19° THU 3-4ft easing, SW 19° FRI 3-4ft N quality 24° SAT 2ft+ clean N 23°
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