EDITOR -

In these times when we have lost our local branch of the ANZ Bank, on behalf of all of the business proprietors in our beautiful town, I would like to ask the residents of Palmwoods and local surrounding districts, to keep behind the local community by shopping locally.

The loss of the bank has, I know, proved to be a blow to many people in the town, not least the local business community, making it very difficult for us to do our own banking within the restricted banking hours.

However, I also realise that the loss of the bank may mean an even greater loss to local business. Where people were banking locally, and then maybe using local shops to buy their day requirements, many will now frequent the shops local to the new banking arrangements in Nambour of Maroochydore.

This may well prove to be a boon to Nambour, but Palmwoods shopkeepers, who are already feeling the "pinch" of the restricted buying power of locals, may end up having to walk away from their investment.

In recent times, the town has taken on the appearance of a "ghost town" for many hours inn the day. I realise that we are not the only shopkeepers on the Sunshine Coast doing it tough, but by shopping locally, some residents may be surprised to see that the business people are endeavouring to keep prices down, and in many cases, are lower than other areas. Many residents, who are fully employed are not even aware of the range of shopping offered by their local business community.

We are all proud of our small community. We were proud to set up business in the area. All we ask is, GIVE US A GO, shop locally when you can, support your local community, and we will endeavour to support you.