Embark on an adventure with an Empty Esky to support fire-affected businesses
The fires that ravaged our beautiful country at the start of this year were beyond devastating but for some, the hurt is just beginning. Many of the towns and businesses affected rely on tourism during the peak times to get them through the quieter times of year so they need your help now more than ever. Empty Esky is a national movement of foodies and adventures on a mission to support small businesses affected by the Australian fires.
Empty Esky is calling all ravenous road-trippers and wild-hearted wanderers to plan a trip to a town (or towns) affected by fire. The idea is that you take your empty esky and fill it up with produce you purchase from growers along the way – growers like Shane Leahy, CFS volunteer and owner of Kangaroo Island Fresh Garlic – he lost his home, farm and belongings while he was out fighting fires with his brigade. While you’re in town, have a beer in the local pub, eat out at a restaurant, shop from the local shops, fill your car up with petrol from the servo and maybe even stay a few days and get to know some of the locals. Sure, donations to any of the charities assisting with aid efforts is amazing but by physically being there in person and spending money in fire-affected communities, your impact will be far greater. Plus, you’ll have plenty of stories to tell your children, or better yet, take them with you and let them experience it for themselves.
To start planning your trip, take a peek at Empty Esky’s map that features a list of businesses affected – from wineries in New South Wales to alpaca farms in Queensland. Before you set out, always check for up-to-date bushfire advice with your local authority. Do you have an Empty Esky? Take the pledge here and start planning your adventure. Even if you can’t get the time off work, follow Empty Esky on Instagram as some of the businesses featured have online shops.
Image 1 credit: Bright Brewery courtesy of Visit Bright, Bright
Image 2 credit: Mountview Alpaca Farm, Canungra
Image 3 credit: Penneshaw Beach Stay, Kangaroo Island
