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Sue Wray is $1000 richer after winning Friday’s second Cash Card draw.

Sue’s card was plucked from among 2000 entries, which represents $400,000 spent at participating Deniliquin businesses in less than two months.

Mrs Wray had just arrived home when the phone call came from Pastoral Times advertising manager Leesa Muir.

Initially, Mrs Wray thought the good news was a joke, but it soon sank in and she now plans to spend the cash on Christmas.

Mrs Wray’s winning card was one of only four she had in the draw.

It was appropriate that Central IGA was the location of the draw, as Mrs Wray’s card was covered only in IGA stamps.

She thanked the store for their part in the promotion.

IGA co-owner Corina Beames said the public seemed to be enjoying the latest ‘shop local’ promotion.

‘‘We’ve had a lot of customers participate and come back for second and third cards,’’ she said.

‘‘It’s great to see.’’

Deniliquin Business Chamber executive officer Lisa Berges said the total of $400,000 spent in Deniliquin was also ‘‘nothing to be sneezed at’’.

She also welcomed the several new businesses that have opened or are expected to open in Deniliquin.

‘‘We are going through a resurgence and the chamber is very happy to welcome new businesses,’’ she said.

‘‘We encourage people to keep positive and to be proud of living and having a business in Deniliquin.

‘‘There’s a lot of campaign these days for businesses with internet shopping, and so much other areas such as Echuca and Shepparton that can detract from Deniliquin.

‘‘But if we put this type of campaign (Cash Card) on and keep the money in Deniliquin it proves people will keep spending in town.

‘‘We have to do ongoing campaigns to keep as much money in town as possible.’’

There are still two draws remaining in the Cash Card competition, and all cards entered in the draw since October will be eligible.

Prizes of $1500 and $2000 will both be drawn on December 21.

To be in the running, all you have to do is shop at participating stores.

Every $10 spent, up to $200 in one purchase, earns you a stamp on your cash card.

The Pastoral Times’ shop local promotion is supported by Deniliquin RSL Club as the major sponsor and platinum sponsors Central IGA, Deniliquin Business Chamber and Wired Entertainment (Purtills).