As we near the one-month mark since the devastating east coast severe weather event hit the Mid-North Coast, Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts is calling on locals to support small business get back on their feet.
"As the dust starts to settle on a tumultuous four weeks for the region, I'd urge our community to start giving back to small businesses and local traders who were forced to close and clean up following the May foods," Mayor Roberts said.
"While the event may have passed, the lingering financial impacts will last much longer. Recouping lost trade from closures, spoiled produce and building damage all adds up. A small financial outlay from individuals such as buying a cup of coffee at your local cafe, purchasing some fresh seafood, or eating at your favourite restaurant one night this week, will have a big impact as businesses continue their recovery journey."
Trading has now resumed for several impacted businesses along low-lying areas such as Short Street, Hastings River Drive and Settlement Point.
"Many of these same businesses would have also been impacted during the 2021 floods, so this is even greater reason to remember how important it is for locals to support locals.
"And while there has been financial assistance made available to those impacted, it's either not going to be enough to offset the damage caused or some are simply not eligible to receive it in the first place.
"Volunteer organisations - such as our sporting clubs - who have been forced to shut their canteens while the sports fields have been closed, have also been impacted.
"If you're taking your kids out for local sport this weekend, think about spending a few dollars to re-build their coffers."
The Mayor also encouraged members of the community not to forget about Council's rescheduled ArtWalk program which will kick off on Friday, 4 July at 5pm.
"This will provide even further opportunity for our community to invest in small business and support our creative arts industries."
If you were a business impacted by the floods and would like to tell Council about your experience, a short survey has been developed that will enable us to focus on destination marketing to support business recovery.
The Commonwealth and NSW Governments have also announced that recovery grants are available for businesses and non-profit organisations directly impacted by the NSW East Coast Severe Weather from 18 May 2025.
The grant comprises funds of up to $5,000 on the provision of evidence, and funds between $5,001 and $25,000 that will be given to eligible applicants. Funding may be used to help cover costs associated with clean-up and reinstatement of your small business or non-profit organisation.
