Expect large numbers of tourists in the Port Macquarie-Hastings across the coming months now Sydneysiders can enjoy holidays in regional NSW.
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Mayor Peta Pinson said the return of Sydney holidaymakers to our region would boost businesses which relied on the tourism trade.
Cr Pinson said regional NSW opening up to Sydneysiders was an "absolute shot in the arm" for businesses in the Port Macquarie-Hastings.
"Our tourism industry is really looking forward to welcoming visitors back, and not only that, it's families also coming together again after such a long period of time," she said.
"People are missing each other, and to know families are going to be together is really heartwarming, because we have missed those connections so desperately."
Monday [November 1] was a milestone day for regional NSW with fully vaccinated residents again able to travel for holidays and recreation between Greater Sydney and the regions after a further easing of COVID restrictions.
That paves the way for family reunions as well as Sydneysiders returning to explore Greater Port Macquarie and other regional destinations.
Cr Pinson said she was aware of anxiety in the air for many people with the region opening up to Greater Sydney.
"We do have some positive COVID cases in the region, whilst those numbers are low, it's still imperative that we all stay vigilant," she said.
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Cr Pinson recognised the area's high double-dose vaccination rate.
The mayor said we needed to be prepared for the large numbers of tourists expected to visit our region through until the end of the Christmas holidays.
She urged everybody to be kind.
"If we have to wait a little while longer to be seated or if we feel a little frustrated, just be kind, because people are here to make sure the experience is a pleasant one and it won't be pleasant if people get agitated and abusive or aggressive," she said.
"We want people to relax and enjoy their time with us, and we want our locals also to have a little bit more patience than they normally would, because we are going to be seeing some large crowds."
Restrictions further eased for the double-vaccinated as the state reached the November 1 roadmap milestone.
In addition to regional travel being back on the cards for Sydneysiders, bookings for hospitality venues are no longer capped and fully vaccinated travellers from overseas can enter NSW without having to quarantine, subject to Commonwealth border restrictions.
Deputy Premier Paul Toole said the easing of travel restrictions between regional NSW and Greater Sydney would provide a huge boost to the state.
"I know Sydneysiders are busting to head to the bush and we can't wait to welcome them back with open arms and for families and friends to get the chance to reunite," Mr Toole said.
"Around 82 per cent of the population in regional NSW has now been fully vaccinated - this an exceptional result and I want to thank every single person who has rolled up their sleeves so travel can resume and businesses can start to bounce back."
Residents across the state still need to comply with COVID-safe check-ins and provide proof of vaccination to staff in most settings.
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