Yarra Trams and VicRoads launch Northcote Christmas campaign

Yarra Trams and VicRoads have launched a marketing campaign to encourage shoppers to buy local in High Street Northcote and Westgarth this festive season.

As part of the campaign, Yarra Trams has worked with the Northcote and Westgarth traders associations to develop eye catching designs for the fronts of trams, on board posters and brochures to be distributed to 7000 households between Clifton Hill and Preston.

During late night trade on Thursday nights in the lead up to Christmas, roving street performers will keep visitors entertained while they search for the perfect gift.
 
Yarra Trams Marketing Manager, Matthew McDonell said the initiative was a great way to encourage people to catch the tram, shop local and support High Street traders.

"High Street boasts some of Melbourne's most creative retailers which makes it the perfect place to find unique gifts for family and friends this Christmas.

"With Westgarth and Northcote linked by Ruckers Hill - and one of Melbourne's best views - Thursday night shopping in High Street is going to be a lot more fun than battling for a car park in a shopping complex.

"There are a range of diverse restaurants and bars available to help sustain visitors through a marathon shopping expedition.

"With Route 86 trams running at a high frequency until 8:30pm on Thursday nights, the tram is the best way to get to High Street," he said.

The initiative follows extensive tram track renewal and streetscape improvements along High Street in the second half of 2011.

The Route 86 tram improvement works are progressing with much of the tiling and streetscape works to be completed by 16 December.

Work will resume in mid-January to complete the final design elements such as street furniture, shelters and real time tram arrival displays prior to the stops opening for passenger use.

Yarra Trams is also working with trader groups in St Kilda, Albert Park Village, Malvern, Barkly Square, Camberwell Junction, Flemington and East Burwood on Christmas marketing campaigns to support local traders.