The Dungog and District Chamber of Commerce gave away $3000 in Dungog Dollars as part of a promotion to entice people to shop in the shire.

Ann Trappel was the major winner of $2000 Dungog Dollars, Gloria Berry was second prizewinner collecting $600 in Dungog Dollars and third prize of $400 Dungog Dollars went to Kerry Atkins.

The chamber’s president Jennifer Lewis said the promotion, which was run in conjunction with Dungog Council, received between 5000 and 6000 entries. 

The last time the chamber conducted a similar promotion was over three months in 2013 with similar enthusiasm shown by shoppers.

The prizemoney was made up from more than 20 participating businesses and sponsors and a small grant from the Department of Industry.

“It is just fantastic for the winners, particularly with Christmas coming up,” said Ms Lewis.

“The winners have said they want to split their winnings up and spend it in  several different shops which is great as the prizemoney was primarily available because of the generosity of the participating businesses.”

Ms Lewis said the chamber was pleased to organise such a successful, collaborative event.

“These type of promotions are not only good for the local economy but they are good for the morale of the area,” she said.

“The more people that participate in events and promotions the better, together, the world is really our oyster.”