As restrictions in Victoria ease, the City of Greater Geelong is urging the community to continue to 'think local first' throughout summer and the festive season.
The City's 'It's our Backyard' campaign now features on billboards and banners across the region, showcasing local business operators and encouraging all community members to support local when seeking goods and services.
Fifty individualised banners are flying at locations around Greater Geelong, each featuring the face of a different business owner aiming to recover from the most difficult year in memory.
It is the first time the City has launched a banner campaign where every banner is unique.
Motorists on the Princes Freeway are also being greeted with the 'It's our Backyard' message on the large Hovells Creek billboard at Lara.
Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan said while the outlook was now becoming more positive, local businesses still need the community's help to recover.
"Summer and the Christmas period are always critical times for traders, and they're even more important this year," Cr Sullivan said.
"It's a wonderful chance for us all to show our care for our fellow community members by supporting local."
While travel around Victoria and interstate is now opening up, Cr Sullivan encouraged residents to still consider local getaways within the Geelong and Bellarine region.
"There are some amazing places to visit only a short drive away," he said.
"And if you're shopping for Christmas gifts, it's a great idea to buy as much as you can from local stores and makers.
"Every local purchase, big or small, helps local people and our community."
Nova Gosa, operator of Newtown restaurant Nova Balinese Kitchen, said he had enjoyed being part of the 'It's our Backyard' campaign and featuring on a banner.
"Seeing my face and new business promoted to all of Geelong has been an amazing help during what has been a very challenging year," Mr Gosa said.
"The campaign has increased my restaurant's profile and has given me the chance to show others how dreams can really come true.
"A few years ago, I couldn't have imagined owning my own restaurant. I urge our community to help business owners like me, and choose local wherever possible."
