Jan Dircks was drawn as the first place winner in the 2025 Gunnedah Times Christmas promotion.

She was very grateful to be named the top winner, receiving a $3000 Why Leave Town e-giftcard to spend at businesses that participated in the shop local campaign.

“I do love Gunnedah and I love the shops here,” Jan said. “I was flabbergasted because I don’t ever win anything.

“I am very grateful for the wonderful opportunity this competition provided.”

She is hoping to share some of the joy with a couple of friends that have helped her out a lot lately.

Jan’s top place ticket came from shopping at Plants For You, a locally owned family business that has everything for garden needs and gift ideas.

Second prize went to Jan Wilson, who was the recipient of a two night stay at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit, from keeping her coin in town at Gunnedah Newsagency.

The third major prize went to Robyn King, who now has a $1000 e-giftcard from spending at Gunnedah Discount Drug Store.

There were a further seven prizes handed out, who appreciated their wins. The full list of winners can be found on page 11.

The Gunnedah Times journalist Jen Mitchell expressed her gratitude to the businesses that chose to be a part of it.

“This Christmas promotion is something we look forward to as it gives us the opportunity to give back to the community that sticks by us,” she said. “None of this happens without the businesses that see the value in a promotion like this.”

“My personal favourite is calling those winners to let them know they have won.

“Most of them are overjoyed to win.”

Not only was Jen grateful for their Christmas promotion advertisers, but also those advertisers that show up all year round.

“Whether it is a small classified or a business that provides support in every single edition, thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” she said

“Every time someone chooses to back the Gunnedah Times in any way, it keeps local journalism alive in this area.”

Participating businesses for the Gunnedah Times Christmas Promotion included, Autopro, Carter’s Pharmacy Gunnedah, Club Gunnedah,

Fogarty Fotos, Goodness & Gracious, Gunnedah Discount Drug Store, Gunnedah Newsagency, Plants for You, Regency Jewellers and Streater Family Butchery.

Fourth place winner Carolyn Palmer.

Third place winner Robyn King.