Watch as shoppers swarm Moonee Market moments before NSW lockdown begins

Watch as shoppers swarm a supermarket on the Mid North Coast moments before the entire state goes into lockdown.

Well, that didn’t take long.

Residents on the Mid North Coast have wasted no time in stocking up on the number one must-have during lockdowns – toilet paper.

In incredible scenes at Moonee Market, about 10 km north of Coffs Harbour, a huge number of shoppers descended on Coles within hours of it emerging that the entire state would be heading into a seven-day lockdown. 

One shopper said he and his partner put their groceries back and walked out of the store when they realised the size of the epic line that was snaking well past the check-outs and along the entire length of the chilled food section.

A person jokingly offered to sell their spot in this Woolworths queue on the Coffs Coast. Picture: Aub Thompson

But before the couple left, they shot a video demonstrating the extent of the public’s passion for a pre-lockdown shop. Of course there were more than a few people who took the opportunity to get a packet of loo paper – or two.

The lines were seen across the region with photos appearing on social media showing huge queues at other supermarkets. One person jokingly offered to sell their place in the Woolworths line on a Coffs Harbour Buy, Swap and Sell page.

The recent escalation of the Covid crisis engulfing the state could push some businesses to the brink after the the lockdown exerts pressure on a regional economy that is struggling.

Many Coffs Harbour business have already expressed concern about the toll the restrictions have been taking on their bottom line.

Business was far from booming in the Coffs Harbour CBD before the snap 7-day lockdown was announced. Photo: Tim Jarrett

The restrictions have also taken a psychological toll on many retail and hospitality staff.

Last week a touching plea from a retail worker poured scorn on those who chose to defy the public health orders and take it out on retails staff.

“You are not children, you are grown adults who are old enough to take responsibility of yourselves. We are not the Police, nor do we get paid to be law enforcement,” said Mel Winkler

Ms Winkler’s also thanked those who continued to do the right thing and her message prompted other workers to speak up about the stress that was being caused by those who sought to challenge them when they were simply trying to do their job.