Festive fun on the south side

A GROUP of central Ballarat businesses located south of Sturt Street are preparing for a festive shopping night next Thursday.

Held at Saltbush Kitchen, Hattie and the Wolf, The Crafty Squirrel, Ballarat Flower Jars, and Cornerstone Cafe, attendees are invited to walk between the venues and purchase some locally made Christmas gifts.

The event will also include goods from Kittelty’s, Chepstowe vineyard, Mrs Baker’s Still House, Nomad Chilli CO, Lucky and James, Red Duck distillery and brewery, and Vegas and Rose.

Morgan Wills, owner of The Crafty Squirrel, said the event is about bringing the community together and supporting local.

“We’re all female run, small creative businesses and we’re all makers and designers and artists,” she said.

“I think that creative drive and collaboration comes naturally to each of us independently. “Coming together and showcasing our offerings gives us more leverage across a broader market than just trying to do it all for yourself, by yourself.”

Earlier this year the group of businesses held a winter themed event, Get Spicy on the Southside, and Ms Wills thanked the community for their support.

“The weather was not our friend and yet the turn out was impressive,” she said. “Everyone still embraced supporting their local businesses and came out.

“Businesses within the neighbourhood feel really thankful, we’re here and feel lucky to have stores like ours within their vicinity.”

Southside Christmas will be on Thursday 29 November from 5pm until 8pm.