It’s the first warm season holiday period the lake has been open since it was opened by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in July. 

The artificial Lake Cathie opening attracted hundreds to the location on Wednesday, July 11.

The lake remains open to the ocean but many doubt it will continue for the Christmas holiday period. 

Cougar Cats Cafe employee Kiera-Jade Geary said business had been ‘pretty good’ since the lake had been open. 

“We’ve really been enjoying it while it’s been open,” she said. 

“It’s definitely picked up since the holidays started.”

However she doesn’t think it will last. 

“I don’t think it will be open for the Christmas break,” she said. 

“If that happens we might not be open next year.” 

Wendy Dunn from Lakeside Fashions said more people have been coming to enjoy the lake since it was opened in July. 

“It’s nice to see families sitting and enjoying the lake rather than watching people just drive by in their cars,” she said. 

Wendy praised the dredging work completed by council to address erosion concerns at the Lake Cathie Reserve. 

“It was dangerous for children before the work was done because there was a drop-off into the water,” she said. 

“Now the bank is fixed kids can safety enter and exit the water.” 

Wendy said there is too much focus on whether the lake is opened or closed. 

“It’s still a beautiful place to come,” she said. 

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