But they, like the rest of Orange, will need to bring their own food and drink to the lake for at least the next two months as the cafe and kiosk are closed.

Orange City Council is seeking expressions of interest from people to take over running the eatery after the previous operator did not renew his lease.

With applications open until November 12 council has projected the earliest date anyone could take over running the building is not until December 7.

Council is also hoping the facility is open far more than before and is seeking someone to operate the kiosk all year round rather than just the warmer months.

Mrs Allen said she would like to see it reopen.

“It is good to grab a coffee or an ice cream,” she said.

However she said she was unlikely to use it in winter.

“Probably not, over the summer and spring months, it’s great,” she said.

Council spokesman Nick Redmond said council was keen to find a replacement operator soon.

“The previous tenant was on a month to month contract and vacated the premises recently,” he said.

“Council is looking for a tenant to run the kiosk section of the business all year round, and the cafe section during the warmer months, but is open to proposals on how best to serve the needs of the visitors to the lake during the cooler months.”

He said council wanted to increase the lake’s use.

“We’re looking for someone who we can work with to increase visitors and provide a warm, welcoming and positive experience,” he said.

“It’s coming into one of the busiest times for the lake so we’re aiming to have a new tenant in place as soon as possible.”

Mr Redmond said once the submissions closed a report will go to a council meeting.

“We’re aiming to have a new tenant in December,” he said.

The council’s information package on the cafe states the kiosk section, selling coffee, cakes, pies and cold drinks should be open at least Tuesday-Sunday all year from 9am-4pm, including on public holidays.

READ MORE: Low water levels an opportunity to improve lake: Hamling

 READ MORE: Gift of life for the lake with defibrillator installed at Lake Canobolas

It also states the cafe section should be open at least Tuesday-Sunday in spring and summer (September-February) and until mid-April.

There would also be a mini Visitors Information Centre with guides and pamphlets provided by council.

“Council is open to other innovations including operation of a cellar door for small wineries, gourmet goods, crafts and arts, weddings, and other potential supplements that would enhance the lake cafe as a destination,” it said.