Dubbo businesses are counting down the days until they can reopen for trade.
New South Wales is due to reach the 70 per cent target for double-dose vaccination within days, allowing for an easing of restrictions.
The Western NSW Local Health District has also recorded another low day of COVID-19 cases. There have been eight cases in the latest reporting period with just three infectious in the community.
President of the Dubbo Chamber of Commerce Matt Wright said businesses have been using the past week to prepare staffing and stock to reopen from October 11.
He said the city has fared better than areas where lockdown was lifted suddenly, as they have been able to prepare.
Monday will be the first time residents from Dubbo have been allowed to dine in restaurants or shop at non-essential stores since the city went into a snap lockdown on August 11.
Mr Wright said many hospitality businesses already have long booking lists for lunch and dinner next Monday.
"So, I think people are just really keen to get out," he said.
"I think we will see an explosion of people out and about next week, and it's a nice time of year, the weather's great, and I guess the pent-up demand is there."
Staff preparing for new COVID-safe regulations
Mr Wright said local business owners are still working out how they are going to police the vaccination status of customers when they reopen.
He said while pubs and clubs have methods for checking the identity of patrons, for other businesses the new COVID-safe measures have caused some uncertainty.
"Those sort of businesses have got generally the burly security guard at the front door, and they've turned many people away in the past for various reasons," he said.
Closed for business
Mr Wright fears the impact of the lockdown, and looming COVID-safe responsibilities may spell the end of some local businesses.
"I'm just wondering what will happen over the next three to six months rolling into a Christmas period.
"It's traditionally a big and busy time for businesses," he said.
He said while the September quarter may be strong, there may still be closures next year.
"If they do keep the doors open, maybe get through this quarter — but it's just been too tough for them, when we do see some closures they're heading into early 2022."
