Inaugural Thriftmas delivers Winter Boost

14th Jul 2026

Beautiful winter sunshine on Saturday provided the perfect backdrop for Guyra and Community Progress Association’s inaugural Thriftmas in July, with a fantastic turnout from locals and visitors alike.
The event came together in just two weeks after the Association identified an opportunity to support local businesses, community service groups and the wider community by encouraging people to get out and about during winter while bringing additional visitors and foot traffic into town.
Association President Sonya Wallbridge said the idea was to create a fun community event that encouraged people to explore Guyra and support local organisations.
“We wanted to give people a reason to get out during winter, discover what Guyra has to offer and create opportunities for our local businesses and community groups,” Sonya said.
“To see so many people embrace the event after such a short planning period was incredibly rewarding.”
As only Guyra weather can do, Sunday’s conditions were a complete turnaround, bringing welcome rain and a rather chilly wind factor. Unfortunately, the free community VRA First Aid/CPR education session and the ‘Welcome to Guyra’ sausage sizzle had to be postponed, as both activities were planned for outdoors. A new date will be announced shortly.
Despite the weather change, the weekend was an overwhelming success.
The Thrifty Markets, Garage Sale Trail and Mini Book Fair proved extremely popular, with shoppers delighted to uncover bargains throughout the town. One garage sale sold out and closed early, while several others had so little stock remaining after Saturday that there was no need to reopen on Sunday.
Adding to the community spirit, one garage sale participant will generously donate proceeds from her sale to her chosen charity - a reminder that Thriftmas in July was about more than finding bargains.
“The generosity and community spirit shown over the weekend was wonderful to see,” Sonya said. “People weren’t just shopping, they were connecting, supporting each other and finding ways to give back.”
The Library’s Craft, Create and Chat sessions were also very well attended, with organisers describing Saturday as “very busy”. The Men’s Shed enjoyed a successful weekend showcasing their skills and projects, while several community service groups welcomed enquiries from people interested in volunteering and becoming members.
The Hot Chocolate Trail proved another highlight, with customers enjoying a range of inventive sweet treats. The title of Guyra’s Best Hot Chocolate was awarded to Why Knot Diner for its creative and delicious ‘Hot Chocolate Bomb’.
“The Hot Chocolate Trail was a great way to encourage people to visit local businesses and enjoy a winter treat,” Sonya said.
“It was fantastic seeing people moving around town, exploring different activities and supporting our local operators.”
Guyra was buzzing with activity as visitors explored the town, attended events and discovered hidden treasures. Even travellers free camping at Mother of Ducks Lagoon joined in after spotting the event program on the community noticeboard.
The Guyra Historical Museum also opened its doors, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the district’s rich history and celebrating the stories of generations past. Brendan Moylan MP also took time out of his busy schedule to visit, say hello and enjoy some shopping.
Guyra and Community Progress Association extends its sincere thanks to local businesses, community organisations, volunteers, market stallholders, garage sale hosts and everyone who supported the inaugural event.
“The feedback has been incredibly positive, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make the weekend such a success,” Sonya said.
With such strong community support, plans are already underway for Thriftmas in July 2027. Organisers have identified opportunities to improve signage, venues and expand the event program, but are delighted with what was achieved in just two weeks of preparation.
“We already have lots of ideas for next year and hope to build Thriftmas in July into a regular event on Guyra’s social calendar,” Sonya said.
Residents of Guyra and surrounding villages who are thinking about holding a garage sale next year, whether as an individual household, sporting club or community group, are encouraged to start collecting their treasures now.
“A garage sale is a great way to declutter, recycle, connect with the community and make a few extra dollars,” Sonya said.
“Thank you, Guyra, for embracing this new event and supporting your local community. We are truly humbled by your enthusiasm and generosity. This weekend showed just how much our town has to offer.”

click for larger image

Going strong for 100 years

Phone	(02) 6779 2347
Email	Contact Us
Social

Inaugural Thriftmas delivers Winter Boost

Menu

News

Contact