Port Stephens businesses have eye on horizon as freedom day nears

With the final details of the NSW Government's roadmap to freedom still being finalised, Port tour operators are anxiously awaiting direction as they prepare for a busy summer ahead.

A NSW Government spokesperson told the Examiner on Tuesday that region to region visitations were still to be confirmed.

"However, people can travel within their LGA and those from Greater Sydney which includes Central Coast will not be permitted to travel to the regions before the state reaches at least 80 per cent double dose."

In welcoming the news, Business Port Stephens president Mel Turner has reminded all businesses to remain vigilant.

"Having a clearer picture of how the path to re-opening at 70 and 80 per cent will look gives businesses and the community the opportunity to now better prepare their business plans moving forward," she said.

"To know that businesses can open their doors in two weeks brings a sigh of relief to many retailers and businesses who were at critical stages of keeping businesses open. I encourage our local community to continue to support local. Now is a great time to jump on board with our 'Pay it forward' campaign."

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Ms Turner said there were still questions surrounding the policing and handling of the non-vaccinated come December 1.

Ian Bocois from 4WD Tours R Us, which operates from Birubi Beach at Anna Bay, said there was great excitement about the thought of reopening his business after the long period of closure.

"While we are looking forward to having our staff back at work, we are hoping before then we can get some clarification of who can visit and the number of people we can accommodate in vehicles," Mr Boicos said.

He expects a big summer once all the restrictions are lifted. "I think Port Stephens will get smashed."

There was also welcome relief from Frank Future, from Imagine Cruises, who said that the Port's tourism sector would be relying on a busy summer and school holiday period.

"The October 11 reopening date coincides with the southern migration of the humpback whales," he said.

"We are expecting around 3000 mums with their calves to be travelling past Port Stephens over the next four weeks. With Sydney visitors locked out until possibly the end of the month, this provides locals the opportunity to take a whale watch cruise without the crowds."

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