Regional Australia is set to capitalise on the commercial boon expected from bumper holiday traffic, with Easter and ANZAC breaks falling on back-to-back weekends.
Towns are expected win big from an extra-long Easter break with accommodation, cafes and restaurants booked out by travellers ahead of time, said NAB retail customer executive Larna Manson.
“Road trips across Australia are proving to be a more cost-effective way families can enjoy some time away and make new memories without the price tag of an overseas trip,” she said.
For those staying closer to home in Australia’s biggest city, the renowned Sydney Fish Market will be open as usual on Good Friday for fresh seafood seekers, with about 650 tonnes expected to be sold to more than 50,000 shoppers.
But with the cost of living front and centre, fishmongers are recommending cheaper alternatives – king prawns for banana prawns, salmon for rainbow trout and vongole for mussels – which should still make for delectable platters but with less damage to wallets and purses.
While taking advantage of extended trading hours, shoppers feeling like recreating a biblical parable can pick up a few loaves of bread from the bakery, and a whole heap of cafes and restaurant at the harbourside hangout.
With temperatures expected to rise around the country, beachgoers are urged to take care this long weekend.
Taking advantage of the brilliant conditions, Victoria will play host to the world’s best surfers as they catch monster waves at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach starting Friday.
On the other side of the country, Tropical Cyclone Errol is sitting near the Kimberley coast of Western Australia and will generate wind and rain into the weekend.
While a sunny and dry Easter is expected across Queensland, widespread major flooding continues for southwest Queensland, northeast South Australia and northern New South Wales.
Police in several states have also urged drivers to slow down and be mindful on the roads during the public holidays to avoid fatal crashes.
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