Ms Berejiklian was in Dubbo to make major announcements regarding the integrated cancer centre and the LH Ford Bridge duplication, but also took some time to meet with the Orana Regional Organisation of Councils, and to take a stroll down Macquarie Street.

She said the city she saw this week “was not here a decade ago”.

“The town is now bustling, it’s growing, a really positive atmosphere,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I’m so impressed by the attitude and the mood of the community and I think that’s because – and I know I’m biased – but we are investing a lot into the community … and it’s making a difference.

“Businesses are investing and if you look down the main street and any part of the city you can feel the confidence and the growth and as a government we’ll continue to make sure that we’re investing in this critical community.”

Her presence was well-received by local business-owners.

“That was a great surprise, I really liked it!” Atlas Kebabs owner Farzaneh Sedgi said after the Premier visited her shop.

“I didn’t expect it. They should do it more often, it’s a positive thing.”

The Book Connection’s Dave Pankhurst said it was valuable to have the premier get a feel of what was happening in the main street of a country town.

“There’s a lot of decisions that they have influence on that say if we [businesses] get better or we don’t,” he said.

Ms Berejiklian said her government was committed to the future growth of Dubbo.

“I think the city will continue to grow, it will continue to be one of the biggest and most critical parts of regional NSW and it will continue to be a huge connector for the entire region,” she said.

“As a government we’ve worked hard to get the dollars in the bank and now we’re making sure we put those dollars where they’re needed most, in health, education, transport, and I’m thrilled about that.

“I can’t wait until I come back again.”