Times are tough, but Moreton Bay is tougher

Times are tough, but Moreton Bay is tougher

Published 08 April 2020

It’s the war cry of a region that won’t say die, no matter how hard the fight. 

The #MoretonBayTough campaign is a call to arms launched by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT) and Moreton Bay Regional Council, in partnership with 16 of the region’s biggest businesses. 

"Moreton Bay Region isn’t immune to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the financial pressures of this crisis are already being felt by local families and business like never-before,”MBRIT CEO Shane Newcombe said.

“What does make us unique in the face of this crisis is the grit, determination and innovation of locals that’s already giving Moreton Bay a glimmer of hope in these dark, difficult times.

“Times are tough, but we’re already seeing businesses prove they’re tougher. Businesses are getting resilient and innovative; evolving their entire business models overnight.  

“By being forced to think outside the square, many are fighting hard to keep their doors open and their employees in a job - these businesses deserve to be celebrated.”

Moreton Bay Regional Council CEO Greg Chemello said this campaign would remind locals that we’re all in this fight together.

“We can observe social isolation while using technology to unite us in this fight,” he said.

“The Moreton Bay Tough campaign will promote stories of innovation and resilience, to hopefully inspire more local businesses to do the same. 

“Today we’ve launched a badge you can share across your social media platforms as a sign of solidarity, to let Moreton Bay Region businesses know they’re not alone.

“This isn’t a campaign that ignores the reality of the situation we face. Rather, it’s intended to bring businesses and community groups and people together to fight as one.”

“The Moreton Bay Tough message is simple – we live local, so we want you to think local, shop local and support local.”  

Moreton Bay Tough’s website and the popular Moreton Bay Tough Facebook group are sharing heart-warming tales of community-spirit, creative business ideas, stories of resilience, mateship, collaboration and some good old fashion kindness. This is what it means to be Moreton Bay Tough.

Businesses, organisations and the community as a whole can get behind the Moreton Bay Tough movement by pledging their support online, joining the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #MoretonBayTough and the most important thing the community can do – is support local.  

Here’s a few easy ways that you can help show your #MoretonBayTough:  

Pledge your support – To show your support and to stay connected with the #MoretonBayTough community, make the pledge online to live local, think local, shop local and support local.   Support local businesses – Although you might find some businesses closed, there’s still a number that are operating their stores or offering services online. You can support local businesses, without having to leave the comfort of your house (or PJs).   Buy gift cards – Do you know someone who has a birthday coming up? Why not think about purchasing a gift card, a staycation or an experience that they can enjoy when the crisis passes (they might even take you along).  Spread kindness (not the disease) - Being empathetic and understanding during these difficult times is FREE. Keep in touch with your friends, show your support of those that might be doing it tough, and be kind. It really is that simple. 

For more information about #MoretonBayTough – visit moretonbaytough.com.au