The GCECo-op commenced in 2008 when the local service station ceased trading. Initially to provide fuel supplies to local and traveling customers; carried out by volunteers who operated the station 5 days per week. The Co-op communicated with a Dubbo based fuel distributor to construct a self-service fuel depot; occurring after 3 years of providing this vital service. The structure of the Co-op wa
s such that other business ventures and promotion could be carried out when needed to secure the future of Gulargambone. The reactivation of the Co-op in February 2017 resulted in 6 new directors (7 in total and 10 members), there is a renewed enthusiasm to reverse the declining local economy, make significant upgrades to the main street and muster local support for our local businesses. In September 2016, auspiced by two eight two eight, the Co-op successfully applied to the MDBRED Energise Enterprise Fund. The project was a 'Shared Marketing Strategy' for local businesses whereby consultants be engaged to implement and deliver the following:
- Shared highway signage
- Buy local campaign
- Print, radio, social media
- Video cameos & image bank
- Shopfront & streetscape concepts
- Marketing local business opportunities regionally
The $25K grant was acquitted 4.6.17. We are currently delivering the Go Gular Buy Local campaign which culminates with a grand prize draw on 15th December. The Shopfront and streetscape concepts are well underway. The Bullock Wagon art installation is planed for assembly during our ‘Pave the Way to Gular’ Art Festival set down for 5 – 8 April 2018. The final element of the Shared Marketing Strategy - marketing local business opportunities regionally will encompass all elements of the art festival with a huge media presence planned, along with planned shop restorations along Bourbah Street.
