Here’s how you can do your bit to support local businesses and prove just how strong our South Australian spirit is.

Day 1: Treat yourself – and local eateries

Usually there’s nothing better than a homecooked meal. But, after days cooped up (albeit for a good cause), you’re probably sick of anything even remotely related to the word ‘home’.

Now’s the time to step away from the kitchen, put your feet up and indulge in your favourite meal from a local eatery – without having to leave home.

With restaurants and cafes having density restrictions on dining-in, takeaway and delivery options remain very appetising.

Jump online and order SA’s version of an American-style burger from Nordburger, or creamy gelato made locally with love at family-owned gelateria 48 Flavours, which uses fresh SA produce. The hardest decision will be choosing a flavour. And let us remind you: Adelaide may have recently endured the coldest day in 32 years, but it’s never too chilly for ice-cream.

Need some more food for thought? Our mouths are still watering at the list of takeaway joints we compiled last April. We can hear your stomach rumbling from over here.

Day 2: Go on a digital shopping spree

Remember window shopping? It’s a phrase probably best described to children of the future as a way shoppers used to browse and buy. These days, we think ‘screen shopping’ has a more accurate ring to it, as more shoppers head online for some retail therapy.

Since the pandemic, many shopping outlets have taken to the World Wide Web to make it easier for people to buy from the comfort and convenience of home. So much so, Australia Post’s free eCommerce industry report revealed about 4 in 5 households – that’s 9 million across the country – bought something online in 2020.

With Australians spending more time at home, it’s not surprising the report also showed the most popular purchases were home and garden goods.

Now you just take your pick from the thousands of online retailers, from groceries and clothing to homewares and health.

Day 3: Shop from small traders

Chances are you’ve seen empty shelves at big supermarkets at least once during the COVID pandemic. That’s all the more reason to turn your attention to smaller traders who need just as much love.

Next time you need a loaf of bread, bacon or fresh fruit for breakfast, buy your groceries and other essential items from bakeries, fruit and veg shops, and butchers. Not only is this a kind gesture to remind them they’re not forgotten, you can also get-to-know the faces of hardworking families behind the shopfronts.

Day 4: Buy a gift voucher online and pay it forward

Consider buying gift vouchers online to help support businesses while their trade is still impacted by restrictions. Surprise a loved one for their birthday, or even purchase it to give as a kind gesture out-of-the-blue.

Here at RAA, we’re still about spoiling our members with discounts, even more so during times like these. Head to our exclusive members area for a range of gift vouchers to treat a loved one or yourself.

Day 5: Book a beauty session online  

Lockdown probably made you feel and look a little out of sorts, so it’s not surprising your locks are looking a little less luscious, and your skin duller than usual.

If you’ve gone this long without reaching for boxed hair dyes or attempting a DIY home beauty hack (note: craft glue isn’t the best way to apply false lashes), don’t start now. Instead, pre-book your next round of beauty appointments online.

Think of it as a post-pandemic pamper. And it’s a win/win situation – you look and feel more like yourself and support local business in the process. Just don’t forget to take your mask.

Day 6: Reinvest your refund

Had you planned to drink vino at Winter Reds last week among Adelaide Hills’ stunning vineyards or Adelaide Beer and BBQ Festival at the Showgrounds? The much-loved July events were among many in South Australia forced to cancel or postpone festivities due to restrictions.

If it was on your calendar to attend one of these events, first enquire whether it will be rescheduled for a later date. It was announced recently that the Beer and BBQ Festival will fortunately return from 24–26 September.

If there are no plans to reschedule, donate some of the funds to a good cause such as a charity, or put the dollars back into the community by purchasing local produce or other goods. One way you can do just that is by ordering wine online from one of the Adelaide Hills’ wineries that were supposed to take part in Winter Reds. Don’t mind us – we’re just adding half a dozen Winter Warmer Reds to our cart from Lobethal’s Golding Wines.

Day 7: Spread the word – and love

Actions don’t always necessarily speak louder than words. Word-of-mouth can be powerful, especially for local businesses. That’s why it’s important to spread the word if you know of a hidden gem in SA.

Does the coffee joint in the heart of the city give you the buzz you crave? How about the butcher around the corner who managed to calm your irritable child simply with a slice of quality SA fritz? Or the lady at the pharmacy whose colourful hair makes you smile.

There’s a lot of good that can come from sharing your stories of the thousands of South Aussies who are working hard to get back on their feet. Anything is possible in 7 days, with a little help from you – not just this week, but the next and the one after that.