The chamber has put together a new-look “shop local” initiative, but this time it’s aimed at the youth of today. 

In the past these types of campaigns have typically been aimed at older residents and, while there was also an incentive, it was always the same rhetoric going out. The chamber hopes its new initiative, which calls on secondary students to create their own short film that follows the theme of shopping local, will help change attitudes among all generations. 

The Leeton Short Film Competition is offering $1000 to the individual or group that comes up with the best video that demonstrates the effects on a town when residents continually shopping local or when they don’t.

Chamber director member Maryann Vitelli was hopeful the short films would resonate throughout the community. 

“I think it’s a really good opportunity for our young people to get involved,” she said. “As part of what we’re doing we’ve done a survey with secondary students asking where they shop. 

“While it wasn’t ideal the result, many said they jump online before looking in stores that we have here in town. I think hopefully through this campaign they are becoming more aware of those impacts when they don’t shop local.”

Those thinking about entering must be current students at Yanco Agricultural High School, St Francis College and Leeton High School. Miss Vitelli said the chamber was hoping to organise a screening of all entries where the winner will be given their $1000 cheque. 

“The deadline is May 31, so that’s still a couple of weeks to put together something and why not with such a good prize,” Miss Vitelli said. 

Videos will be available for the community to vote on by clicking “like” on the Leeton Short Competition Film Facebook page on their favourite post. For more information visit https://lookleetonfirst.com.au/.