Berwick locals are delighted after High Street received a major Christmas renovation over the weekend with help from a much loved local trader — Bodega on High.
The council collaborated with Bodega to achieve the restorations after years of no decorations along the busy street.
The street has now been adorned with a giant Christmas tree accompanied by two giant nutcrackers, light displays, and candy canes.
The holiday blitz was put on the table back in August during a council meeting wherein Cr Scott Dowling motioned for the council to support the Christmas decoration initiative by contributing $50,000 to Berwick High street.
The motion ultimately failed due to lack of support from other councillors.
But a second motion was carried to equally divide the $50,000 funds in a Christmas pilot program between High Street in Berwick and Cranbourne.
The split funds of $25,000 covered the red bows and wreaths in Berwick.
It was then that Bodega reached out to Cr Dowling to fund the rest of the decorations.
A Bodega spokesperson said they worked with Cr Dowling and council “to produce something for the community to enjoy”.
The generous contribution has since sparked an array of positivity from the community for the café and others who were involved.
“What a fantastic gesture from this small business,” Nicole said on social media.
Jane, another local, said it brought “a wonderful spirit to Berwick and surrounds”.
Another said it was the best decorations they had seen in 60 years.
Ewa Madeley, who owns RX Cosmetic Clinic near High street said she was happy to see another business taking on the initiative this year.
“Hopefully I and other businesses will get involved next year as well,” she said.
Cr Dowling said he was pleased with the reaction from locals.
“It goes to show the spirit of Christmas is alive and well,” said the Councillor.
“Hopefully more local businesses would like to be involved as Christmas is a wonderful tradition that brings people together.
“I am delighted with the Christmas decorations in our High Street of Berwick and the amazing community response.
“The elaborate scope of the High Street decorations wouldn’t have been possible without the support from a local trader, Bodega on High, they generously offered to assist the council with the Christmas activation to give back to the community,”
In addition to the festivities, local businesses and traders on High street Berwick have also been encouraged to decorate their shop fronts for a chance to win Casey’s Christmas light competition.
“Christmas is a beloved family tradition that has been missing for too long and it’s been great to see the local traders participating with colourful window displays and the chance to win a best in show award from the council,” said Cr Dowling.
“We encourage residents to light up their houses also with a chance to win a $500 voucher.”
