Kangaroo Valley businesses are calling on travellers to visit the region any way they can, after landslides on a major tourist route have hit the community hard.
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Local operators are reporting downturns of eighty per cent since a major landslide closed Moss Vale Rd on the town's northern side.
With closures on the Highlands route (Moss Vale Rd at Barrengarry) expected to remain for many months, the Kangaroo Valley Chamber of Commerce is urging those from around Nowra and Berry to drop in using the open routes from their side of town.
In a statement, the Chamber said the road situation is yet another blow for the community, which is in dire need of patronage for neighbouring areas.
"Kangaroo Valley felt the immense impact of the Currowan Bushfires, then endured the Covid lock downs and endless travel restrictions," the statement read.
"The Kangaroo Valley community could have done without the extra challenges of extreme weather and broken roads.
"Businesses are reporting an 80% downturn in trade since the Southern Highlands detour was put in place.
"The small but resilient community of Kangaroo Valley remains open but needs visitors to thrive."
The quickest and most direct route via Kangaroo Valley Rd, from Berry, is open to all. Access is also available over Cambewarra Mountain on Moss Vale Rd, with an escort in place. Moss Vale Rd escorts leave from Barnfield Rd every hour on the hour.
According to the Chamber, now is the best time to be visiting the region.
"Main roads in from Berry and Nowra remain open and there's plenty on offer for autumn...
"Now is "peak valley" time, with autumn bringing bright days and cosy nights - the sweet spot for bushwalks and picnics, or even a little camping.
"Green natural views are a great way to boost your mental health, and with all that rain, Kangaroo Valley has never looked so good."
For more details and to plan a trip to Kangaroo Valley, see: visitkangaroovalley.com.au
