Christmas 2011 - Birth of a New Tradition

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As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Australians with monstrous piles of cheaply-produced goods - merchandise that has been produced at the expense of Australian labour. This year will be different. This year Australians will give the gift of genuine concern for other Aussies. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by Aussie hands. Yes there is!

It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from their local Aussie hair salon or barber?

Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, Aussie owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down your Dollars on a Chinese made TV? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or his trees trimmed, or games at the local golf course.

There are many owner-run veg restaurants. Remember, this isn't about big National chains, this is about supporting your home town Australians with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the Aussie working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for Mum? She would love the services of a local cleaning lady for a day. Maybe a remedial massage or a facial would be more her thing.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I know I can find some young person who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local craftspeople make their own jewelry, pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner-operated veg restaurants. And, how about going out to see a play, concert or ballet at the local repertory theatre or community orchestra?

Musicians need love, too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Small wineries, owned by Australian families, could use a sale or two.

Christmas is no longer about draining Australian pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about us, encouraging Australian small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Aussies, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we can't even imagine.

This is the new Australian Christmas tradition.