Small business owners on the Peninsula are set to be endorsed by a new digital directory aimed at discovering creative areas and boosting local tourism.
Central Coast Council launched the Makers and Creators microsite through the Love Central Coast website last week.
Residents can explore a range of brands and bespoke small businesses on the directory, which ranges from painters and poets to beekeepers and craft beer distillers.
Central Coast Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan, said the digital resource showcases the growing creative areas of the Coast.
“We are home to a community of talented and forward-thinking individuals and this fantastic new digital directory makes it easier for all of us to discover and engage with their work,” Vaughan said.
“A Maker and Creator is an individual or group who creates something unique to share with our community and visitors.”
The microsite on the Love Central Coast website was funded by the NSW Government through $50,000 from the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund.
Umina Beach designer, Carlie Ballard said it was great to have a concise directory of creatives in the area.
“There is such an expansive talent here and its only growing now there is an influence of people coming to the Coast in recent times,” Ballard said.
“Having moved from Sydney, I was searching for this type of creative outlet, and knowing there are others out here doing similar things on a national and global level, is pretty cool.
“It’s really exciting to be part of this group of talented people.”
An eco-friendly business in Ettalong Beach aimed at providing alternatives to single-use plastics, has also been identified on the digital directory.
Co-owner of #untrashy, Tim Heffernan, said becoming involved with the microsite has been a welcome addition to his business.
“It is a great tool and we are looking forward to connecting more with our local community,” Heffernan said.
“We are hoping to establish ourselves as the Coast’s very own eco-friendly business.
“Overall, it’s been a really easy process to apply for.”
Residents and local business owners can also submit a free listing for the directory by visiting lovecentralcoast.com.
Maisy Rae