SPEND IN GLEN RETURNS WITH CHRISTMAS CHEER AND THE BELOVED BARREL
A favourite Glen Innes Christmas tradition is back for 2025, with Spend in Glen once again encouraging everyone to shop locally, support small businesses, and enjoy the festive spirit that makes our community so special.
Organised this year by an enthusiastic group of local businesses and proudly supported by Council, Spend in Glen will run from 20 November to 24 December. Simply spending $20 or more at a participating Glen Innes business gives shoppers the chance to win a share of $10,000 in Shop Local Gift Cards.
And yes — the much-loved entry barrel has returned! After making a qualifying purchase, shoppers can pop their receipt into the main-street entry bin for their chance to be one of 44 lucky prize winners. Now in its second decade, Spend in Glen continues to grow each year, giving our economy a welcome boost while shining a spotlight on the wonderful products and services offered right here at home.
Mayor Margot Davis said, “Council is proud to once again support Spend in Glen, a fantastic community-led initiative that celebrates the strength and spirit of our local businesses. Every dollar spent locally helps keep our economy strong, supports local jobs, and ensures our main street continues to thrive.”
Local business owner Sue Waters from Carelles agrees. “Spend in Glen is something our business community looks forward to every year. It brings people together, creates a buzz in the main street, and reminds everyone how important it is to shop local. As a business owner, I’m thrilled to be involved again — and it’s wonderful to have the iconic barrel back!”
Residents are warmly invited to enjoy the festive atmosphere in the Town Square for the prize draws on:
• Thursday 4 December – 5:30pm
• Thursday 11 December – 5:30pm
• Thursday 18 December – 5:30pm
• Final Draw: Wednesday 24 December – 12:30pm
Each draw includes:
• 1 × $500 Shop Local Gift Card
• 10 × $200 Shop Local Gift Cards
Local groups, including the Lions Club and CanAssist, will be cooking sausage sizzles during the Thursday evening draws, adding to the warmth and fun of late-night shopping.
To make Christmas shopping easier — and more festive — many Glen Innes businesses will open for late-night trading on:
• Thursday 4 December
• Thursday 11 December
• Thursday 18 December
Shop local, support local jobs, and keep Christmas spending in the Highlands.
For more information, visit the Council website or the Spend In Glen Facebook page.
