Belinda Phillips, from Phillip Island, is working alongside a number of Ballarat-based businesses in creating a gingerbread trail which plans to allow locals to get out and about as the weather warms up.

Ms Phillips said the idea had come about through social media conversations with a number of businesses from Goldfield Chiropractors to Elevation Dance Studio.

"We've got about 15 businesses that have already shown interest in getting involved," Ms Phillips said. "It will be a great opportunity for local businesses to stay connected within the community.

"I've seen how businesses here in Phillip Island are suffering, and I know from having spent many great times in Ballarat for events like Royal South Street, how those businesses must be suffering as well.

"It's something we can all do together. Our plan is to get it up and running from November when the weather is better and people can get outside more and we can help out local businesses."

A character Marrina Mouse has been created as the mascot for the gingerbread hunt to promote the event over the coming weeks.

"Families can start following Marrina Mouse and the gingerbread house trail on Instagram.. They will be able to listen and follow along to the story of Marrina Mouse and the Gingerbread House, as well as having access to recipes and activities that they can join in at home," Ms Phillips said

Any business that wants to be involved in the gingerbread hunt, can make contact through instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marrinamousegingerbreadtrail/?hl=en or email belinda-phillips@hotmail.com

A map of all businesses involved will be created in coming weeks and will be able to be accessed on the instagram page.

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