Gea Local: Support Lyneham locals - Our Canberra

Michael Johnson, a man with a moustache, stands in front of shelves of books, arms crossed, looking at the camera.

Lyneham second-hand bookshop owner Michael Johnson says the experience of browsing is so enjoyable after years of restrictions.

As Michael Johnson, owner of Book Lore second-hand bookshop, sees it, there’s lots of fun to be had in shopping locally this festive season.

“We’ve just had two years of having to stay at home,” he said. “Why not get out, explore and have fun? Browse! There’s so much fun in browsing.”

For Michael, the pandemic has been chaotic and at times frightening, “but the bounce back has been strong,” he said. “And I put that down to long-term community support. That’s really heartening and it’s ongoing.”

Second-hand books make great sustainable Christmas gifts, and supporting a local business is a wholly different experience to shopping online. The experience of customers returning, enjoying face-to-face service, pausing to read blurbs, gives Michael the opportunity to know what they like and build a relationship.

Supporting local goes both ways, and Michael actively does so at Book Lore. “Every book in here is bought from a local. Everything down to the designs of our bookmarks and bags – they’re from local artists. Again, it’s having those relationships with customers and the people you work with. You can’t replace that.”

Nichole Whitney agrees. Her business, Country Pride Sausages, relies on repeat customers who prioritise local shopping and personal service.

“We are a small family-operated business so having the support of the community is the most important thing to keep us operating,” she said.

“Without people supporting local business we would not be able to offer the products and services that we do. In turn we purchase as much of our products and produce as locally as we possibly can.”

She, too, thinks the personal touch of the local shops is unbeatable. But the benefits go beyond this.

“When you shop at a local business this Christmas you will be giving the gift of local jobs and family income,” she said. “And most of all, you’ll be showing support to your local community.”

Two men stand in front of a glass cabinet full of different cuts of meat. They each hold a large chop and smile at the camera.