Noosa tourism authorities and retail outlets have joined hands in a promotion designed to lure visitors to spend more money at Hastings Street shops.

The Hastings Street dollars deal, running from now until the end of August, rewards shoppers for every purchase of 50 dollars or more at participating retail outlets, from clothing and footwear to restaurants and boutiques.

Shoppers will receive five Hastings Street dollars every time they spend $50 or more on an individual purchase, and ten local dollars for every $100 spent, to be used towards savings on other purchases along the street.

On street parking, during this time, has been increased to three hours instead of the usual one hour.

Hastings Street Association president ,Jim Berardo said the campaign aimed to capture the imagination of consumers and get them supporting participating businesses with their local dollars.

”While we know that many consumers have tightened their belts recently, we hope the idea of retail savings along Hastings Street to complement a holiday to Noosa is something that people will warm to.

“We’re inviting visitors to come and spend some time here with the message of chilling out in Noosa during the winter months.

“Visitors who stay in participating Hastings Street accommodation properties throughout July and August will automatically receive 100 Hastings Street dollars to use on the street,” he added.

Tourism Noosa chief, Steve Cooper said the campaign was predominantly targeting the drive and domestic markets.

“There has been a lack of confidence in consumer spending across Australia and tourism hasn’t been immune to that. This campaign along with the Hastings Street dollars puts a bit of fun into visiting Noosa through the winter months and hopefully encourages consumers to take a well earned break whilst capitalising on a range of great offers.”

Details: www.visitnoosa.com.au

by Shamoli Dutt - Austguide Travel News Editor