Christmas Spirit Set to Shine in Southern Grampians Shopfronts
Published on 11 November 2026
Christmas is just around the corner, and businesses across the Southern Grampians Shire are being invited to bring a little festive cheer to their shopfronts as Council’s annual Christmas Window Display Competition returns for 2026.
From Thursday 12 November, local businesses can register their displays and transform their windows with a touch of Christmas creativity, adding colour and festive spirit to shopping strips and town centres across the Shire.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said the competition was a great way for local businesses and the community to embrace the festive season together.
“Christmas is such a wonderful time to see our towns come alive, and our local businesses play a big part in creating that atmosphere,” Cr Heslin said.
“Each year we see some fantastic creativity in the window displays, and together with Christmas trees, decorations and events taking place across the Shire, they help make our towns feel particularly special at this time of year.
“It’s also a great opportunity to get out, explore our local shops and support the businesses by shopping locally. I’m looking forward to seeing what our traders come up with for 2026,” Cr Heslin concluded.
Last year, Hamilton Hamper won Retail Window honours, the Salvation Army Thrift Shop won the Community Award, The Catching Pen in Coleraine took out the People's Choice award, and the People’s Choice Voter award went to Tanya Reid.
This year, the competition will feature two prizes, with a local voucher awarded to the business behind the community’s favourite window display, as well as one lucky community member who casts a vote, both vouchers will total $250 each.
Businesses can register their Christmas window display through Council’s website until Sunday 13 December. Businesses can enter at any time during the competition, however, early registration is encouraged to make the most of the public voting period.
Community members can vote for their favourite display by scanning the QR code featured on promotional posters or by following the link on councils website. Voting closes Tuesday 17 December at 3:00pm, with winners announced shortly after.
-Ends-