Businesses and the Beaudesert CBD will be lit up like a Christmas tree in a bid to rally the festive spirit and encourage shoppers back to the local precinct following a tough couple of years for retailers across the country.

An economic downturn, as a result of the GFC, and the growth of internet shopping have been some of the silent killers for businesses in the last two years especially for many local retailers across Queensland.

But with the introduction of paid parking at some major metro shopping centres there are now more reasons to get back to basics and support local retailers.

Beaudesert Chamber of Commerce secretary Shelly Currie said this year locals and businesses would really have the opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit and support the local community.

“What we are wanting to do is get new Christmas banners up around town and new Christmas lights through the centre of town,” she said.

“We also want to get some coloured lights in the fountain which will look absolutely fantastic and we are hoping to provide fireworks for the Christmas carols if we can.

“So it is just about bringing the Christmas spirit back to Beaudesert.”

Ms Currie said the chamber wanted to help Beaudesert stand out as a shopping destination for locals who would otherwise be looking to Brisbane retailers to spend their Christmas dollars.

Beaudesert retailer Chris Grimmett of Kalico Country plans to enter the chamber’s Christmas display competition.

“Hopefully (what chamber is doing) will encourage people to shop locally and make it attractive for people to shop in town. We have wonderful stock in town so people don’t need to go anywhere else,” she said.