THE NSW Government's decision to reopen the state's borders to Victoria has been welcomed by regional airlines and businesses alike.
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NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced on Wednesday locals would be able to travel freely between the two states from November 23.
The announcement has come just days after the Queensland border was reopened to regional NSW.
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Opening of the borders is good news for Link Airways, which offers the only direct air travel between Tamworth and Melbourne.
"If the uptick in bookings is anything like when it was announced the Queensland border was open it will be great for us," Link Airways airline manager Jeff Boyd said.
"What we've found so far is that most of the interest has been from what we call VFRs (visiting friends and relatives).
"Our traditional business market hasn't really returned yet, but I'm sure it will follow."
Link Airways was operating its Tamworth to Melbourne service earlier this year, but had to cease the route after a second wave of COVID-19 hit Victoria, meaning those who had booked flights were given a credit.
"Certainly there's lots of people who have had credits with us but weren't able to fly that are looking to cash in on those," Mr Boyd said.
"There has been a real spike in those people with credits, which to be honest suits us, we'd rather get them off our books.
"I'm sure these kinds of announcements will generate more confidence in the business sector and in turn, will see our traditional business customers return."
Tamworth mayor Col Murray said he was also confident the easing of border restrictions would instill confidence in local businesses.
"Tourism is so important and offers such a good penetration into our local economy," Cr Murray said.
"Particularly in terms of our hospitality sector and those border openings simply can't come quick enough for our regional economy."
Ms Berejiklian said the state was prepared for any risks that may come with opening borders.
"We know that once you ease restrictions that you're likely to get cases, but it's how you manage these cases," she said.
"We are confident our health system and the processes we have in place in NSW will allow that to happen."
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
