While many tried their best to pivot during the course of lockdown with online and delivery services, they all admit nothing beats face-to-face interaction.

Susan Buckley and Maureen Orth of Mainly Mudgee Gifts were counting down the days until they could open their doors back up again, and on Friday the moment arrived.

"It's bloody great to be back," Susan said.

"We jumped up and down out the back when we found out we could open today, we were jumping for joy," Maureen said.

"We've really missed our customers, we've missed seeing everyone. I love Mudgee and I'm very grateful for the support we get," Susan added.

When the announcement was made that stay-at-home orders would be lifted on Friday, staff at The Book Nest Mudgee set about getting their shop spick and span for a 9am opening.

"It was wonderful to be able to open the doors this morning," part owner of The Book Nest, Portia Lindsay said.

"We were furiously getting ready last night to welcome the community back in. It feels kind of strange after so long but it's very exciting.

"We definitely did our best to keep up our service to the community while our doors were shut. We were doing free local deliveries, click and collect, and we tried to be available on the phone and online but it's not the same as coming in.

"There's still that trepidation about community safety and of course we have that in mind with re-opening, but we're so glad to be back."

While the lockdown orders have been lifted, customers are still required to check in via QR codes, wear face masks, sanitize their hands and maintain a social distance.

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