Wollongong's three tourist parks have been among the hardest hit financially by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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That's why Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery was so happy restrictions were eased recently allowing venues such as Bulli Tourist Park to reopen ahead of the June long-weekend.
"We did lose a lot of money with our tourist parks. Council is anticipating losing around $10 million in this financial year in terms of restrictions we had to put on outdoor dining, tourist parks....and other opportunities for our licensees," Cr Bradbery said.
"We've had a hit. Hopefully [the re-opening] is a sign that things are going to lift and we will get back into our normal tourist economy but let me also emphasise there is always the possibility of a second wave."
With a three-day weekend around the corner, the Lord Mayor encouraged residents and visitors alike to continue to be mindful of measures to reduce the spread of Coronavirus.
"Traditionally the long weekend is a time when people socialise and go out and about, and that's great - we've got beautiful parks, beaches and play spaces to explore," he said.
"The extra day on the weekend gives us more opportunity to appreciate where we live at a time when many of us are staying pretty close to home.
"I'm asking that people remain conscious to the risk of Coronavirus. It's still very much a threat and we can't be complacent. We need to continue to be mindful of our physical proximity to others, keep up personal hygiene habits and to stay home and away from others if you're unwell."
Cr Bradbery said the long weekend would also likely mean an increase of daytrippers - a move that would be welcomed by local businesses and retailers - and those looking to stay at one of Council's three tourist parks.
"Our tourist parks are open and we are ready for business," he said.
"I'm sure we'll see an increase in visitors coming to our city and enjoying our coastal lifestyle. I hope that they eat locally, shop locally and in doing so support our local business community at a particularly tough time.
"We've been working proactively to support local businesses by waiving their outdoor dining fees. While I'm sure these steps are helpful, they're no substitute for the financial injection of having people purchase from cafes, restaurants and retailers.
"To those who are looking to come to our city from outside the area, I say, welcome and thank you for joining us. We just ask while you're here to keep following the public health order guidelines and join us in keeping each other safe and healthy."