Businesses on Bull, Hargreaves and Williamson streets, as well as Chancery Lane, Hargreaves Mall, Pall Mall and surrounding areas chose to close for the entire day, or part of the day.

Road blocks and safety concerns for staff and patrons were at the heart of the closures, while other businesses had to remove outdoor dining areas.

More than 20 employees missed out on shifts at Sim’R on Saturday after owner Simone Blakemore chose to close for the entire day, with the protests planned almost directly in front of her business.

They also closed their Red Well Cafe in the library and wholesale sourdough business, impacting both buyers and customers.

“It really had a lot of flow on effects,” Ms Blakemore said.

“It was going to be right outside our door, and when we considered what has happened at similar events (in Melbourne) in the past, we decided we couldn’t stay open.”

She said the entire CBD business community would welcome any concerted campaign to get people back to the city after a quiet winter of trading, but Saturday’s events were just one part of a growing downturn in trade.

Bendigo Business Council board member Marika McMahon said replacing one regular shop with a trip to the CBD could help cover Saturday losses and highlight the city’s businesses.

She said business people could also choose to have lunch in civic gardens to contrast with the events in the area on the weekend.

“I understand that money is tight for a lot of people, and it’s not always possible to spend more than usual, but people could choose to come into the CBD once this week to do some shopping,” she said.

Cafe Twenty2 on Williamson Street chose to close early to ensure staff safety.

Owner Sharon Carlson said it was disappointing that so many areas of the CBD saw a downturn.

“It does have an impact when locals are being encouraged to stay clear of the CBD. Police managed it very well though,” she said.

“People were commenting all day on just how quiet Hargreaves Mall was.”

The City of Greater Bendigo will discuss a targeted plan to encourage city shopping this week.

Mayor Peter Cox said any effort to attract shoppers to the city had his “full support”.

“I certainly support any community show of support for businesses, a number were obviously concerned that streets were being closed,” he said.

“It is Father’s Day this weekend so I’d encourage people to go out for breakfast, maybe have some lunch there too.”

Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters launched an “Eat.Drink.Shop Bendigo” idea for the coming weekend, with shopping vouchers and competitions planned.

She said all types of businesses – from hairdressers to hardware – suffered during the virtual CBD lock down.

“It’s all about rebuilding some energy in the CBD,” Ms Chesters said.

“So many lost a day of trade, others were dead quiet, so we need to come together and help them out.”