The long weekend and eased coronavirus restrictions certainly appeared to generate support for businesses and accommodation venues in Oberon.
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The region was busy with people out and about. Oberon Council's tourism and economic development manager Mathew Webb said he hopes the visitor momentum continues into the school holidays.
"They started to arrive on Thursday and campers were still in town on Tuesday morning," Mr Webb said.
"With the We Want You Back tourism campaign partnership between 11 local government areas, Orange 360, Central NSW Joint Organisation and Destination Country and Outback, targeting the visiting friends and relatives market, we saw a lot of visitors in the Central West.
"This market makes up 35 to 40 per cent of travellers within and across the region.
"In Oberon, there were a lot of campers looking to get outdoors.
"Fossicking, fishing, bushwalking and Mayfield Garden were the most popular inquiries we had at the Visitor Information Centre.
"We had over 400 visitors through the doors over three days. Although it's the end of the mushroom season, visitors still enjoyed what the pine forests have to offer.
"The Reef Reserve was packed with campers, as was Flat Rock. I think Oberon retailers and eateries should be happy with the return of visitors.
"Now we have to keep the momentum going leading into the winter school holidays."
Mr Webb said sales at the Visitor Information Centre, including merchandise purchases and hiring fossicking equipment, were up.
"Our spectacular region and its proximity to Sydney and ACT makes it a 'must visit' destination for everyone," he said.
Mr Webb said most accommodation venues should be pleased with the increase in tourists after the recent lockdowns.
"Accommodation may be hosted, but visitors spend more in cafes, restaurants, attractions, shops, gifts and on local produce," he said.
"Tourist numbers will increase when Jenolan Caves is fully opened - the precinct, cafe, Chisolm's Restaurant and reserve are open at the moment, but Cave tours have been put on hold.
"We're waiting for the easing of event restrictions as this will bring weddings and functions back to the area."
Mr Webb said when Kanangra-Boyd National Park reopens, trail bike riders and hikers will be back in force.
