In the past year, due in part to covid restrictions preventing overseas and interstate travel, the streets of many small towns have been thronged with tourists.
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Now one of those small towns has launched a new tool to help visitors find their way to the best it has to offer - and it offers a lot.
On Thursday evening, Robertson business people and community members filled Moonacres Kitchen at The SHAC for the launch of a tourist map, which directs visitors to 60 or so shops, cafes, attractions and places to stay.
"Regional NSW is experiencing a tourism boom," said one of the map's creators, Josette Cauchi, who runs the Church Conversion B and B.
"These guides will help local businesses take full advantage of the estimated 3,000 plus visitors currently visiting Robertson each month, many of whom stay overnight in one of 50 local accommodation establishments."
"These guides will help local businesses take full advantage of the estimated 3,000 plus visitors currently visiting Robertson each month.
- Josette Cauchi
A new look website is also on the way, meaning visitors will have access to both an online and a hard copy guide.
The launch on Thursday night was also a chance to welcome and showcase wares from some of the newest businesses in town.
The huge central table groaned under the weight of cheeses from the Old Cheese Factory's Dairy Store, breads and smoked vegetables from Moonacres, and the most spectacular native flower arrangement courtesy of Petals and Paddocks.
Cocktails were shaken by Burrawang-based Trolley'd mobile bar featuring local whisky from Coburn Distillery, while beer was on offer from Highlander Brewing Company.
Other businesses featured included plant nursery Native Grace and The Bush Cafe that runs from its grounds.
The venue itself, Moonacres Kitchen, is also one of the newer kids on the block.
Envisioned as a cooking school and foodie event venue, the offshoot of Moonacres Cafe was supposed to kick off at various points last year, but coronavirus restrictions kept blocking the way.
"But it's all systems go now," said manager Karon Di Francesco, citing classes on everything from plum jam to sourdough Easter buns in the works.
The tourist map idea originated with chamber member and Old Bank B and B owner Monika Williams, who said she had seen something similar in a town in Queensland.
"We had already bought the bank but hadn't moved here yet," said Monika. "It's fantastic to see the idea come to fruition."
The information and design were put together by Jenny Kena and Naomi Janzen at the Community Technology Centre, with plans to update it in the future if a grant can be accessed.
