Summer in Orbost and the surrounding areas brought a busy holiday season, despite the threat of bushfires which slightly tempered the usual visitor numbers.
Many local businesses, however, still enjoyed a strong and rewarding season.
Ella Bache, which opened its doors on December 18 last year, reported steady trade since opening.
Gift vouchers have been popular, and the team is encouraging locals and visitors alike to come in and redeem them.
Similarly, John John’s Diner, a new food venue in town, had an incredibly busy start.
The team shared that their first couple of months have been “amazing,” with support from both the Orbost community and holiday visitors exceeding their expectations.
“We’re truly grateful for how warmly everyone has embraced us. It’s been a fantastic start and a very positive first season for our team,” they said.
Local businesses also reaped the benefits of a packed events calendar that brought hundreds into town.
The Christmas Eve Festival created a festive buzz along the main street, with shoppers and diners supporting local cafés, restaurants and retailers.
The Marlo Triathlon attracted competitors and spectators, who stopped in for meals, coffee and essentials.
Meanwhile, the Live on the Lawn event at the Orbost Club Hotel drew large crowds enjoying food, drinks and the warm local hospitality.
The Orbost Arts Centre held regular events which drew a crowd each week of both locals and visitors.
Local accommodation also reported a strong trade, with founder of The Little Drift, Hannah Macalister-Bills pleased with the numbers coming through.
“The Little Drift officially opened at the start of summer 2025, and we had been advised that bookings would ‘trickle through’ for the first three months and to not be concerned if we weren’t hitting our targets,” Ms Macalister-Bills said.
“Turns out we need not be concerned.
“From Boxing day 2025 both tiny homes which sleep two guests each were booked every night until January 4.”
Ms Macalister-Bills noted the majority of guests were travelling the Melbourne-Sydney/Canberra coastal route and had either never visited Marlo before or had done so years ago.
Following the success, Ms Macalister-Bills is hoping to update some of the functions of the homes with the aim of getting guests to stay longer and more frequently.
