Spend local and win big in Orroroo
Sitting at the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, Orroroo is a community that knows how to come together. Despite its fair share of challenges, this tight-knit town continues to thrive, largely due to its dedicated volunteers.
From splashing the streets with yellow for cancer awareness to organising the popular market days, these passionate locals play a vital role in keeping the town connected.
And now this dynamic group of go-getters has launched a new “shop local” campaign. Until May 1, locals and tourists are encouraged to spend money in town. All you need to do is spend the nominated amount at each shop, receive a receipt to fill out (verified by the business owner), and place it in the entry box. This gives you a chance to win a 65” television with a soundbar currently on display in the Orroroo Newsagency/Pharmacy window.
Joy Ford, member of the Orroroo Regional Tourism Group, and elected member for the District Council of Orroroo Carrieton explains that the aim of the campaign is to encourage people to spend just a little more in town. “If everyone spent an extra ten or twenty dollars in a local business, it would make a huge difference,” she said. “The campaign is a way to remind people of the importance of shopping locally. After all, in a couple of months, sporting and community groups will be knocking on local businesses’ doors for support – it’s a two-way street.”
The past growing season has been particularly tough for farmers, with some of the worst conditions in recent farming history. For areas like Orroroo, which have endured eight long years of drought, last season hit even harder, with local businesses often bearing the brunt of ongoing droughts.
But what Orroroo lacks in rain and growing potential, it makes up for in community spirit. With a thriving main street filled with all the conveniences of a bustling small town, Orroroo is spoilt for choice compared to some of their neighbours. Passionate locals continue to demonstrate what small towns can achieve through commitment, and working together toward a common goal.
Adding to this, Orroroo recently won a $900K grant through the Growing Regions Program to upgrade its main street ensuring more accessibility. With the District Council of Orroroo Carrieton covering the remaining $400K, it’s a $1.3 million dollar make over for the heart of this town.
“So many people from surrounding areas come to Orroroo because we have a lot to offer,” Joy said. And they truly do. “We’ve had a lot of businesses hang in there,” she added.
This thriving two-pub town, with a population of 600, boasts two cafes, a butcher, a newsagency, gift stores, and a host of other businesses. As Joy puts it, “If we all work together toward supporting businesses, it’s really not a big effort.”
