News Pandemic hits tourism, construction booms COVID-19 has punched a $150 million hole in the local tourism economy. by . Published September 21, 2021 Link copied! Copy failed! Construction has boomed during the pandemic, with 64 per cent more domestic building permits issued over the past year in Bass Coast compared to the 10-year average. Updated September 05, 2025 10:13 pm | 6 months ago Link copied! Copy failed!