The Port has been finding creative and innovative ways to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and it seems that attitude is no different when it comes to Mother's Day.
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The enduring coronavirus restrictions and lockdowns will mean a contact-less Mother's Day for many on Sunday, May 10 but residents appear to be turning to their local businesses and charities for gifts.
Port Stephens Koalas has been busy accepting koala adoptions on behalf of mothers across the Hunter.
"It's a form of sponsorship really," adoptions coordinator Ewa Meyer said.
"The money you contribute will go towards the cost of their treatment, food and ongoing expenses such as the rescue vehicles.
"You're giving twice - you get a special personalised gift and are supporting the work of Port Stephens Koalas."
For $50, buyers will receive a personalised certificate with their mother's name, a photo of their chosen koala, an explanation of the animal's history and an e-newsletter update every three months.
There are currently nine koalas to adopt through the Port Stephens Koalas website. Adopt a koala by Friday, May 8, in time for Mother's Day.
Florists look set to do a roaring trade for Mother's Day.
Deanne Elliott from The Gazebo Florist in Raymond Terrace said she is much busier than usual in the countdown to Mother's Day this year.
She and husband David Elliott are expecting to deliver up to 150 bouquets, at least 30 more than last year, on Sunday. But that was not taking into count bouquets being sold in-store.
"People are sending their love in flowers because at the moment it's really one of the only things you can do," Mrs Elliott said.
"So many people are sending flowers to show their appreciation for mums and the people they can't visit.
"A lot of people, the elderly, are getting flowers sent to them. If people can't pop over for a cup or tea, for a birthday or attend a funeral, they'll send flowers."
Mrs Elliott said Australian growers of flowers had been working hard to meet the demand by florists - a demand created by the public wishing to send flowers to loved ones during the pandemic lockdown.
"They have been turning over so much stock for us, it's unbelievable," she said.
"I would say 80 to 90 per cent of stuff coming through is Australian grown. So, buying local isn't only supporting your local florist shop but it's supporting the local growers within Australia."
Mrs Elliott's advice for those wanting to order Mother's Day flowers is to buy local and to get in early.
"There's a possibility that some florists will sell out."
Meanwhile, Tomaree Business Chamber was encouraging residents to 'Shop Port Stephens' for Mother's Day.
"There has never been a more important time for our residents to look at opportunities to 'Shop Port Stephens'. It will keep many businesses alive and keep people employed," Peter Clough from the chamber said.
The Hunter Business Chamber is also encouraging Port residents to shop local for Mother's Day gifts. Some of the Hunter chamber's gift recommendations were:
- Gifts bought online from local retailers, either home-delivered or picked up in-store;
- Vouchers for services such as facials and massages that can be redeemed later;
- Vouchers for restaurants and cafes that can be redeemed later;
- A takeaway meal from Mum's favourite eatery;
- Her favourite tipple from your neighbourhood bottle shop;
- Flowers or plants from a local florist or nursery