The new year is well and truly here, and visitors have flocked to Orbost and Marlo to welcome 2025 and enjoy the sunshine.
Wendy Holley, owner of Compleat Angler Orbost, said trade this year had been busy compared to New Year’s Day last year, after significant flooding affected the area.
“Boxing Day for us was definitely the busiest,” Wendy said.
“There’s definitely been a mix of tourists, some have come from Melbourne, others from Mildura and northern Victoria.”
Wendy, along with her son, Matthew Holley, took ownership of the tackle shop in 2023 after running Bairnsdale Bait Supply in Macleod Street for almost 12 years.
Jenni Bartlett, owner of Orbost Emporium, said business had boomed over the holidays.
“It’s been really busy here, on Christmas Eve it was flat out,” she said.
“People are everywhere.”
Senior Sergeant at Orbost Police Station, Matthew Jenkins, said New Year’s Eve was “a pleasure to work.”
“New Year’s Eve revellers from Marlo to Mallacoota were very well behaved and it was great to see everyone having a good time,” Sgt Jenkins said.
“Mallacoota had approximately 500 people at the Hotel and Golf Club and Marlo hotel had around 400 people at their functions.
“It is a credit to the local licensed premises on the responsibility and control they had over the events.
“Whilst our main party scene is over it is a timely reminder that we still have a large increase in population in the area and we still need to be vigilant.
“Operation Roadwise is still in force targeting distraction, speed and Drink/Drug driving. Expect to be intercepted and tested. Be patient on the roads and rest often.
“The weather is warming up we are urging people to ensure they are aware of their personal responsibility and accountability when it comes to fires this summer.
“Our message is clear: “You light it, you own it” – we will be holding every single person to account for recklessly lit fires or unattended campfires.
“A recklessly lit or abandoned fire is a crime that carries severe penalties. If you’re responsible for a fire that gets out of control or abandoned, you will be charged and could face up to 15 years jail.
“There have also been reports of thefts from eskies and vehicles in caravan parks across the shire. It is important that you remember to lock away your valuables.
“You might be on holiday but opportunistic thieves are not.”
Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour as it is occurring should call Triple Zero (000) and anyone with any information should contact Crime Stoppers via phone or email.
