"We are working with business operators, event organisers and community networks across the Mid Coast, assisting with the development of COVIDsafe plans which are an essential requirement of reopening and reactivation," economic development co-ordinator, Robyn Brennan said.

"Our town centres are seeing a return of customers and to support this we are inviting interested businesses and community stall holders to reactivate their Vibrant Spaces registration."

The reactivation of our streets and public spaces will be a positive sight and will lift community spirit, Ms Brennan said.

As CBDs throughout the Great Lakes display a semblance of normality, community markets and events also are making a welcome appearance.

Community events are now permitted to go ahead, although things may be a little different with organisers required to ensure social distancing requirements are met which may mean proceeding without spectators in some cases, Ms Brennan said.

"Some of the first events to go ahead will be those in the community sports area and include the AMSAG Car Rally at Bulahdelah on July 18 and the NSW Surf Masters at Boomerang Beach on July 30."

And it's great news for community markets, now given the go-ahead to reopen, with a COVIDsafe plan in place.

"While farmers markets, classified as essential services, were able to continue during the COVID restrictions, community markets had to cease for a while.

'We're looking forward to seeing the reappearance of our vibrant community markets.

"We are aware market organisers face some challenges in meeting social distancing requirements and ensuring participant numbers on site remain within the guidelines.

'We can assist with developing the required COVIDsafe plan to meet the requirements.

"Our team is ready to assist businesses, event and market organisers to return to the street, stage and public spaces and provide some welcome vibrant spaces for the MidCoast."

Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber president, Megan Lewis welcomed the return of retailers and community markets to the region.

"We also appreciate council's support to assist businesses, community groups and events to have the required practices and measures in place to ensure they are operating in a COVIDsafe way," Ms Lewis said.

"With the July school holidays about to start, it means we will be able to put our best foot forward for visitors, and locals will be able to get out and enjoy their favourite shops and cafes and market experiences," she said.

"This is also great news for shoppers who want bag a bargain at the upcoming Great Lakes Great Sales which is taking place from July 9-119; just look for #greatlakesgreatsales in Facebook and Instagram."

For more information to assist with activating spaces, please visit the MidCoast Council #ShopMidCoast webpage.

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