“It would cheer the town up a bit,” she said, “and acknowledge the dedicated volunteer work of the vast number of service organisations and not-for-profits group we have here.”

Ms Creagan can envisage perhaps historic displays depicting life as it was, given grandparents an opportunity to discuss with their grandchildren how their day-to-day lives compare; arts and crafts displays of local schoolwork; photo displays; items produced by the local Men’s Shed and other dioramas showcasing the local district.

“”Many times I see tourists photographing our street in Glen Innes. It’s unique,” she said in her submission to the July council meeting last week.

“However nothing screams louder than empty shops reflecting a town’s health.

“It I was an empty shop owner, $20 a month or people looking in the window at a display – that also had a discreet ‘shop for rent’ sign – would seem more interesting that adding to a ‘struggling country town’ feel.”

Speaking after the meeting, Ms Creagan said she has found council to be extremely approachable and willing to listen to ideas. She hopes this idea will find momentum, and said she’s happy to help coordinate the project.

“It will bring people into town, and if they see a display about the Visitor Information Centre or History House or the art gallery, for example, it may direct them to go there. It may keep visitors in town a bit longer, maybe even an extra night, and help give the town a positive feel.”

Ms Creagan’s proposal has been passed on to Business In Glen (BIG), whose president Jim Ritchie said  she will be invited to address the next BIG meeting on the issue.

“BIG is supportive of any ideas which utilise empty windows and shops and promote a feel of things happening in Glen Innes,” Mr Ritchie said.

“Obviously all businesses are doing it tough at present. The economy coupled with the works being carried out on the main street are making things difficult.

“Glen Innes is not on its own as far a business goes, with many other towns reporting the same economic problems. For example, the mall in Armidale has a lot of empty shops and less activity in the current economic climate.

“The major agenda for the people of Glen Innes is to support their local businesses and shop locally. Local businesses are always ready to support local fundraising activities, so we need to support them by shopping in town.”