Fiona Scott (Lindsay, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Today I rise to urge the people of Lindsay to shop small this Christmas. I know in this place we can all be a bit parochial, with each of us believing that our electorates are the best and that our retailers are that little bit more special. But, when it comes to Lindsay, we are definitely spoilt. Recently, Queen Street, St Marys, was recognised by the Shop Small campaign for its unique shopping precinct. I would like to congratulate city centre manager Paulette Adams for her marvellous work in bringing this wonderful street back to life. Her work, of course, has been supported by so many retailers up and down Queen Street—in fact, right around the community: from Jamjo Home and Gifts, Joanne Tomic; Hobbypro, which relocated from High Street, Penrith; Graham's Hobby Centre, run by Ian and Diane Shelley; the Bridal Outlet, a mother and daughter operation with Lisa and Hyatt; Daily Fresh, which offers a wonderful range of fresh fruit and veg every single day, run by Rafiq; Bula Fiji; and many cafes and businesses—people like Cassandra, James, Maria and Sue-Anne.

I must appeal to your own palate, Deputy Speaker. I would be in so much trouble if I were not to mention a wonderful little shop called Scottish Fare. I am told, by my very good Scottish friends Brian and Glenda Cartwright, that David's haggis, square sausage, black pudding and tattie scones are the best—as good as you can get in Scotland. Deputy Speaker, if you are ever out in Lindsay, I will recommend that you come and shop small in Lindsay, and we will find you some of the best Scottish fare that you could also enjoy.

An honourable member: No black pudding!

He will love the black pudding! Shop Small is the engine room of the economy, and it is essential that we support all our local retailers. Local retailers employ local people. Buying more local means that more money stays within our home communities. Small business provides so much employment and longevity for our communities. It is so important this Christmas when we shop for Christmas gifts that we do support each other and support our local communities.

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