RAYMOND Terrace businesses are getting ready for a busy October long weekend, with the NSW Koori Knockout coming to King Park from 2 to 5 October.
Around 10,000 people are expected in town each day for the tournament.
For local businesses, the question now is how much of that crowd will make its way into the town centre.
The manager at Sage Lounge in Raymond Terrace Marketplace said the restaurant is prepared for the weekend. They plan to see how busy Friday gets before adjusting staffing for the remaining days.
At Sleepy Hills, the manager said the accommodation is booked out for the weekend and staff look forward to visitors arriving.
Port Stephens Council, a major event sponsor, estimates visitor spending could bring $10 million into the local economy. A council spokesperson said its holiday parks were already full and businesses had been encouraged to consider extra demand for food, fuel and other essentials.
That could mean longer trading hours or extra stock for some businesses, although the scale of the weekend would only become clear once visitors arrive.
The council has spoken with local businesses face-to-face and sent event information ahead of the tournament. Contractors have also been engaged to provide services at the event.
Three main car parks have been secured at King Park Sports Complex, providing what the council described as the largest parking capacity in the tournament’s history.
The town centre will stay open, with significant traffic delays expected. Residents and visitors are being asked to allow more time for their trips, particularly around King Park.
The Newcastle Yowies, who are hosting the tournament, have been working with the council, Transport for NSW and NSW Police on plans for the event. Local sports clubs are also helping with preparations at King Park.
For businesses, it is a chance to welcome people who may be visiting Raymond Terrace for the first time.
It also means planning for a weekend when the usual number of staff, meals or rooms may not be enough.
The council will release detailed traffic and parking information before the weekend and later assess its economic impact.
By Althea Guinsberg
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