Residents in the Southern Highlands will have to wait until November 1 to visit family and friends in greater Sydney and versa.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The delay to intra-state travel between regional NSW and greater Sydney was announced on October 15 by Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole.
Travel between regional and rural communities in NSW is permitted.
Wingecarribee Shire Council general manager Ms Lisa Miscamble said the while the council understood that some residents were disappointed by the travel delay, it was important that the region was properly protected before widespread travel recommenced.
"While our shire's residents have done a marvellous job rolling up their sleeves to be vaccinated, not all regions across NSW are as prepared as our shire," she said.
"It's therefore imperative that vaccination rates are as high as possible across all of regional NSW before widespread travels begins.
"The council fully supports the efforts of NSW Health and encourages all Highlanders to get vaccinated.
"While our existing rates are above the state vaccination average it's important we maintain momentum to help keep everybody safe and help re-open the Shire and state as soon as safely possible."
Ms Miscamble said the additional delay would affect local businesses that relied on Sydney trade.
"This is another reason why it's so important that all Highlanders support our shire businesses," she said.
"This can be done in-person at most venues while many others are offering goods and services online.
"If residents are supporting a local business in-person, remember to adhere to the current public health orders and physical distancing restrictions."
The council has been working to support businesses locally.
"As part of this work Council is working with Destination Sydney Surrounds South and local business representatives to prepare a Request for Quotation to develop a Southern Highlands Recovery Digital Marketing Strategy to assist the businesses of the Southern Highlands," Ms Miscamble said.
"Additionally, the council is investigating funding opportunities from DPIE and Destination NSW to implement any actions recommended by the Strategy.
"We continue to work closely with the Business Chambers and business stakeholders to ensure Wingecarribee is well positioned to take advantage of any opportunity that arises."
Did you know the Southern Highland News is now offering breaking news alerts and a daily email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up below.
Vera Demertzis
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
Journalist at the Southern Highland News covering council yarns and community news. Got a tip or a story to tell? Email vera.demertzis@southernhighlandnews.com.au or call on 0427 250 908.
