Within 15 minutes, one business lost $50,000 in three phone calls.
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Bundanoon Country Inn Motel manager Andrew Compton said the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in cancellations and postponements for bookings over the next three months.
"We've lost 98 per cent of our business," Mr Compton said.
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"That's weddings, family get-togethers and people coming to visit the town."
This has flow-on effects for staff and other Bundanoon businesses.
"I've got the house cleaning staff who've had their shifts cut from a daily shift to once a week," he said.
"Luckily we've got the full support of the motel owners [Country Inn Motels, owner of the Berrima Bakehouse Motel] to find other work available in the motel.
"We want to supplement their incomes as best as possible."
Community support has heartened Mr Compton in these uncertain times.
Customers have discussed bookings for 2021, and support for small businesses is strong.
"For every bust, there's a boom. We've all got to band together in these times," he said.
The motel is in discussions with the government to become an approved isolation accommodation provider.
The arrangement would include contactless check-in and check-out, a thorough cleaning service and a contactless continental breakfast delivery.
Mr Compton is contacting cafes and restaurants to collect takeaway menus to put in his rooms.
He said he welcomed enquiries from other businesses.
"The Southern Highlands isn't closed for business," he said.