Boating and fishing enthusiasts can now set sail on the region's premier waterways, just in time for Mother's Day.
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Copeton Dam and Pindari Dam have reopened to the public after closing due to COVID-19 restrictions.
With Copeton Dam now at 12.7 percent and Pindari Dam at 11.6 percent, people can go out and enjoy themselves on the water.
Lake Keepit Reflections have also reopened, to a select few only, as the government makes exemptions for NSW caravan parks with relation to certain restrictions.
MP Adam Marshall said from Friday, council roads into Copeton Dam and Pindari Dam will be reopened to the public for day trips only, but not overnight stays.
Unfortunately, it will still be some time yet before people are permitted to set up camp on the shoreline overnight and have a holiday.
- Adam Marshall
"Gradually, the State Government is easing social distancing restrictions, as means of restarting the economy and getting people's lives back to normality," Mr Marshall said.
"The reopening of these dams will come as a huge relief to many outdoor lovers who rely on fishing and getting out on the water as their main form of exercise.
"Inverell Shire Council staff have today removed 'road closed' signage on Howell Road into Copeton Dam and Pindari Dam Road at Pindari Dam. Boat ramps at both dams will be reopened for use."
Auburn Vale Road into Copeton Dam's Northern Foreshore will remain closed while work continues on the $5 million campground redevelopment.
"This really is great news for the petrol stations, cafés and retail businesses in Inverell and Ashford who rely on people stopping in town and spending money on their way through to the dam," Mr Marshall said.
Mr Marshall clarified while the waterway itself is open, the Copeton Waters Holiday Park and Northern Foreshores camping area and Pindari Dam camping ground remain closed.
"Under current COVID-19 travel restrictions in NSW caravan parks and camping grounds remain closed to the public," he said.
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"Unfortunately, it will still be some time yet before people are permitted to set up camp on the shoreline overnight and have a holiday.
"For those who do take up the opportunity to wet a line they must keep at least keep 1.5 metres from the nearest person and abide by the gatherings of two people rule."
The changes mean Reflections at Lake Keepit is not be open to members of the general public.
They can, however, accommodate permanent residents of the caravan park or camping ground, overnight travellers, local workers, visitors to these people.
People who have no other place of permanent residence or whose primary place of residence is temporarily unavailable can also stay.
