WITH almost $50 million spent in the Southern Grampians Shire leading up to Christmas last year – locals are being encouraged to tick off their festive shopping list with local businesses again this year.

According to Spendmapp, $21.1 million was spent in November 2022 and $27.7 million was spent in December 2022 on goods and services in the shire as people bought gifts, stocked pantries, and gathered to drink and dine.