Chairman Dave Kaczynski said the group had been very proactive in planning events to help create a better atmosphere.

He said the emphasis would be on attracting families to shop and enjoy their experience.

``To ensure that happens, we are looking at organising a number of activities leading up to Christmas and developing a real festive theme in Main Street,'' he said.

The build up to Christmas commences as early as November, when StawellBiz will conduct a number of activities in Main Street as part of the Tri State Games.

Mr Kaczynski said the activities would take place on Wednesday, November 11, to coincide with a rest day for the athletes taking part in the Tri State Games.

Main Street will be closed to traffic as traders take part in a giant Market Day, selling items from the footpath.

StawellBiz is currently looking for more stallholders to take part in the Market Day with Mr Kaczynski describing the opportunities to increase sales as enormous.

``We are hopeful that all traders will be involved and have items for sale in the street. We have also asked schools across the region to take part in the day,'' he said.

Other attractions on the day will include a visit by animals from the Halls Gap Zoo in the morning, a vintage car display and displays by the Dunmunkle Sump Oilers.

``We are trying to organise as many activities as possible to keep people in the street,'' Mr Kaczynski said.

``Our hope is the day is well supported by the traders and also the residents of Stawell and district.''

Another major event that is set to get underway is the Shop in Stawell - Win $10,000 Giveaway conducted by StawellBiz and the Stawell Times News.

The $10,000 giveaway gives shoppers the chance to share in $10,000 worth of shopping vouchers, redeemable at any participating outlet in the promotion.

Plans are well underway for the promotion, which will kick off on the night of the Hospital Y-Zetts Shopping Spree in Main Street, on Friday, November 20.