Win prizes for supporting local business and get involved with Benalla’s festivities

By Contributed

Dec 10, 2024

The festive season is here, and Benalla is set to shine with a range of exciting Christmas promotions designed to bring joy and vibrancy to the community.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

From encouraging people to shop local, to free street performances — there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Mayor Bernie Hearn has invited the community to join in the fun and make this Christmas one to remember.

“This year, we’re offering unique and engaging activities that celebrate the creativity and community spirit of Benalla,” Cr Hearn said.

“Our Christmas promotions encourage everyone to get involved, support local businesses, and spread a little festive cheer.”

Support local this Christmas

Shopping locally this festive season comes with added rewards. Shop at participating businesses to enter the weekly prize draws.

How to enter:

▪ Spend $25 or more at a participating retailer displaying the ‘Show Them Your Love’ poster.

▪ Scan the QR code in-store to complete the form and upload your receipt.

▪ Enter as many times as you like (one entry per receipt) until December 24.

A full list of participating businesses can be found at www.benalla.vic.gov.au

Free busking in December

Bring music, magic and creativity to the streets of Benalla this December.

The $64 busking permit fee is being waived for the month, allowing performers to showcase their talents at one of seven designated busking bases.

Festive Window Displays

Benalla’s local shops and businesses have dressed up their windows with festive cheer, sparkling lights and holiday magic.

In total 25 local businesses entered the competition across three categories.

Deputy Mayor Justin King was the judge of the event, and said competition was so tight the category of Best Daytime Display could not be separated, so three winners were awarded.

The winners:

Best Nighttime display: Inspired Abilities – “Inspired by Christmas”

Charmaine Bourke and Belinda Chestnut from Inspired Abilities with BBN President Cr Nathan Tolliday and their award for Best Nighttime Display. They also picked up an award for Best Daytime Display. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Best Daytime Display: Milner-Watson Pharmacy – “Cosy Christmas Magic”

BBN president Nathan Tolliday with Paula Hayes from Milner-Watson Pharmacy, which won Best Daytime Display. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Rambling Rose – “Sparkle and Shine”

Inspired Abilities – “Winter Wonderland”

Most Amusing Display: The Merchant “Grinch”

BBN president Cr Nathan Tolliday with Stephanie Sydow representing The Merchant, which won Most Amusing Display. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Highly commended: The Early Bird – “Family history”

BBN President Cr Nathan Tolliday and Caryn De Fazio with the Highly Commended award for the Christmas window display at the The Early Bird cafe in Nunn St. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Caryn De Fazio's 'tobacco stick' Christmas tree is in the window of The Early Bird cafe in Nunn St, Benalla. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Brick by Brick “Star Wars Christmas”

BBN president Cr Nathan Tolliday with Cheryl Gray representing Brick by Brick, which won a Highly Commended award. Photo by Simon Ruppert

Take a wander through town to see the beautiful displays and soak up the Christmas spirit.

This year’s festive promotions have been delivered in collaboration with the Benalla Business Network.

“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the BBN for their generous Benalla dollar donations, which will be used as prizes,” Cr Hearn said.

“Let’s come together to make this festive season extra special.

“Support local, get involved, and experience the magic of Christmas in Benalla.”

For more information, contact BRCC via council@benalla.vic.gov.au or 5760 2600.

You can stay up to date by following Benalla Rural City Council, Supporting Benalla Businesses and Benalla Business Network pages on Facebook and Instagram.