According to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) Australians plan to spend $1079 on average over the holiday season.

With the popularity of online shopping on the up, businesses in Taree and surrounds are seeking to explore more ‘unusual’ gift choices to stay competitive. 

Usually known for its second hand clothing, Taree Lifeline store manager Kathy Karaman said with the larger store they’ve stocked it brim full with gifts old and new. 

“People are blown away that we sell new items,” Kathy said. 

“We’ve got homeware, towels and ornaments that are a bit eclectic – but that don’t cost a bomb”. 

Kathy said as well as computer gear and televisions, they go right down to the very specific – with a left-handed electric guitar. 

Peter Bolte, owner of Taree Leading Appliances, said surprisingly, come Christmas time, people want big ticket items like freezers, washing machines and dishwashers, as opposed to small appliances.

“Homes will host a large number of people over Christmas – and it makes people think more seriously about updating their appliances,” Peter said. 

Peter said the most popular gift in his store, a solar powered DIY kit, has been a hit with ages from six to 40.

“It engages people in creativity and makes them think,” he said.  

Gary Bridge owner of Bridgeys Sports Power is finding similar success in choosing different stocking fillers. 

“It’s what people are after – those small gifts for the stocking,” Gary said.

Gary said Britz Shred Heads, a skateboard toy and the Aqua Slingshot have been stand outs this year.

Owner of Taree Camera House Alan Small said the increased popularity of bird watching has made waterproof binoculars a top present choice this year. “Before only enthusiasts would be interested in bird watching, now a lot more people are interested in spending time watching birdlife,” Alan said. 

Craig Griffiths of Sports First, formerly Alcorn’s, said this year they aimed to stock more lifestyle items – like golf bags, pool tables and tennis tables. But the surprising stand out has been the popularity of the game of quoits. 

“These are the toys people grew up with and now they want their children to have them,” he said. 

Margaret George, owner of Margaret’s Underfashions, said the difficulty with buying bras is getting the sizing right. “If husbands come in I try and steer them in the direction of a gift voucher,” she said. “They never expire and a bra fitting is so worthwhile.”