Stores on Barkly Street will be offering extended trading hours on December 23 to give people more time to find a last-minute Christmas gift.
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Ararat Rural City Council has partnered with Greater Ararat Business Network and local retailers to bring residents 'Shop 'til you drop', providing a late-night shopping experience to help residents get sorted this Christmas.
Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said 'Shop til you drop' "is all about buying regionally and supporting local businesses".
"People like the convenience of online shopping but the wait for e-commerce deliveries may make people think twice about ordering online.
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"With only a week to go, it's a safe bet heading in-store and walking out with a gift for your loved ones or something for yourself.
"Our retailers have done it tougher than most, so people can feel good about knowing their dollars are spent locally."
Zest Living owner Marcia Perry said this initiative is "a great opportunity" for residents who work or parents who are home with the kids.
"We really appreciate that Council and GABNetwork are backing us and helping us out too," she said.
Selected retailers will also be offering a door prize just to say thank you for spending locally this festive season.
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GABNetwork president Maria Whitford is keen to bring everyone out for the late-night shopping event.
"Shop til you drop is a great way of checking off present shopping without any distractions - this way shoppers can browse without feeling rushed and leave knowing they have a gift sorted," she said
"Ararat's retail precinct has a range of retailers ready to help you find everything you need for under the tree. We'd love to see everyone come down and support local businesses."
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