IT might have a new name, but the June long weekend has again proven to be a good money spinner for Portland and district businesses ahead of the quiet season.

Most businesses the Observer contacted this week reported a good King’s Birthday weekend, helped along by good weather.

Denise Pekin of Portland Holiday Village said the accommodation provider was “chock-a-block” with visitors from as far afield as Western Australia and Tasmania doing the tourist “lap” including the region (and expected to return).

“We turned numerous people away and the cabins were full,” she said.

“It was very busy in town and it’s just a shame that some of the shops weren’t open.”

Portland Tourist Park manager Ann Vollmer said it was a “very busy weekend” if possibly a bit quieter than the same time last year.

“I think the weather (forecast) kept a few people away even though it ended up being a beautiful weekend,” she said.

“We had very good occupancy and particularly in our cabins it’s very good for the next couple of months as well.

“It usually quietens off at this time of year until the AFL Grand Final weekend.”

Visitors came from ‘all over the place” with many from Melbourne suburbia.

 “They used their time well in escaping the city,” Ms Vollmer said.

Businesses also reported a good weekend – there were plenty using the outdoor dining areas of cafes, for example.

And then there were the fish.

Compleat Angler co-owner Brayden Fisher said there were plenty out there, and a lot of tuna was caught.

“It was a good weekend for us, it was quite busy considering the quiet few weeks before that,” he said.

“You can’t complain.

“The June long weekend is probably one of the last big weekends they (anglers) look to before the spring comes through because you can never predict the weather after that even though you can still get good fishing you’re just never sure.”

Portland Tourist Association president and Portland Cable Trams general manager Joy Hocken echoed all those sentiments.

“It was good to see so many people in town enjoying everything we offer and the attractions,” she said.

“It was really good weather wise and that always helps.

“The tram had quite a few visitors on board, especially Monday morning which is when people are usually travelling home.”

Ms Hocken said Portland also benefitted as an overflow accommodation provider for the Kelpie Muster in Casterton.