The Leeton Business Chamber is reporting local businesses are struggling under the weight of ongoing restrictions such as mask-wearing, checking in and social distancing.

While president Krystal Roden said businesses here were complying with these rules, it was making life hard for them.

"Many that I have spoken to are struggling ... I think in some cases people are staying home or they are only going out when they have to," she said.

"It's also been a pretty miserable winter, so it's been quiet for many of our local shops.

"We're really encouraging people to support our businesses here and shop local.

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"We know wearing a mask might be uncomfortable and checking in is a bit of a hassle sometimes, but it's what we have to do.

"Our businesses here need us.

"They are always there when we need them for our raffles, donations, charity events, sponsoring our sport teams so we really need to step up and spend our money with them where we can."

The chamber itself recently completed a small giveaway to help boost the awareness of this idea, offering a Leeton Gift Card competition where people had to state and share where they were looking forward to spending their money in the shire.

Yvonne Tyrrell was the winner of this $100 gift card and was looking forward to spending the funds.

"I always like to spend money locally, it's easy to do," she said.

The Leeton Gift Cards are a perfect way to spend money in the shire and are a great gift idea, providing a recipient with dozens of stores in town to spend their card at. Mrs Roden encouraged residents to think local first before heading out of town.

"Even if you think a shop can't get something, just ask - chances are they will do everything in their power to get it in for you," she said.

"These are local people who are living and working here. We need to keep supporting them to also keep our town thriving."

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