It comes after Northern Illawarra Chamber of Commerce (NICC) directors decided to double up the chamber's shop local promotion last year after adopting an idea from Symbio Wildlife Park general manager Matt Radnidge who told members how important it was for Symbio to thank locals for supporting the family-run zoo.

That resulted in the distribution of a "Thank You Locals" booklet full of exclusive offers late last year leading into Christmas.

But NICC president Pauline Lacelles-Smith, of the Otford Pantry, said everyone in the chamber also knew how important the annual Easter promotion had been in recent years.

She said they knew ongoing support and patronage from local residents was the life-blood for small business.

But the added bonus was they were also getting invaluable information from the feedback the annual campaign provided.

Participating businesses make it clear they are involved with an NICC logo sticker prominently displayed and encourage participants to fill out an entry by May 31 for the chance to win one of three significant prizes, which will be drawn at the June 17 NICC general meeting.

"All customers who spend $20 or more per transaction can complete an entry form," Mrs Lacelles-Smith said.

Promotional flyers are being mailed out to local residents.

They will have the chance to win a $1000 first prize made up of 50 $20 vouchers to spend at participating businesses, a $500 second prize of 25 vouchers and a $300 third prize of 15 vouchers.