Our region is home to a variety of quality local produce. Who wouldn’t love a gift from Wyong’s Luka Chocolates, Little Creek Cheese or Glee Coffee Roasters under the tree this year?
And not all gifts need to be wrapped - you could give your family and friends an unforgettable Central Coast experience, like flying through the air at the Tree Top Adventure Park, boating, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding or fishing with a hire craft from The Entrance Boat Shed, or getting up close to the residents at the Australian Reptile Park.
Why not check with a local business about gifting a voucher for services? We all know someone who would love an appointment at the hair salon or their lawns mowed.
There are around 20,000 small businesses on the Central Coast and many of them would be thrilled to be part of your gift giving this Christmas. If you can, please support them.
Our region
The Coast is a beautiful region and millions of people visit every year. Visitors support jobs and opportunity and a thriving tourism industry is important to our local economy.
We can all take a holiday in our own backyard this festive season - why not take a tour of the iconic Norah Head Light House, wander along the walking trails in the Wyrrabalong National Park or take in the views from the stunning Crackneck Lookout?
Of course no matter how big or small, businesses all over the Central Coast rely on hard working locals and it’s a busy time for retail, hospitality and tourism. Spare a thought for the workers who keep these industries ticking over during the festive season.
There are other ways you can support the Coast this Christmas.
You could give one of the best gifts of all - your time. There are some wonderful charities and voluntary organisations on the Coast supporting locals in need, and many experience an increase in requests for assistance during December.
I wish you a very Merry Christmas!
Emma McBride is Federal Member for Dobell.
