He was chased down by the Ford Mustang of Cameron Waters, who claimed second ahead of former teammate Chaz Mostert.

It was the second trip to the podium for both van Gisbergen and Mostert, with the Holden drivers placing first and second in Saturday's 250-kilometre race.

Will Davison, who has just moved to Dick Johnson Racing, was also on the podium on Saturday.

"What an awesome day and a good team strategy," van Gisbergen said post-race on Sunday.

Councillor Warren Aubin, a Supercars fan himself, said the action on track was "really good" from Friday through to Sunday afternoon.

"I think all the lead-up events have been really, really good. There's been good racing and it has catered for everyone's tastes," he said.

"The main game has been quite exciting, so you can't ask for much more than they've put on."

While the racing was obviously the highlight of the weekend, it's important not to overlook the economic benefits of the Bathurst 500 for the region.

All the race teams, officials and visiting fans needed places to stay and eat while they were here, helping to give a boost to businesses.

Cr Aubin said that was more important than ever after the loss of many events in 2020 and restrictions on the ones that could go ahead.

"I've spoken to a few business people up in the [council] box and they've seen an increase in their businesses this week, and that's what it's all about," he said.

"... Everyone took a hit last year. We really need this year to flow on now and bring on the good events."

Precautions were taken to ensure the event was held safely including a limited crowd and the encouragement of common COVID-safe measures, those being social distancing, hand sanitising and mask wearing.

With those measures in place and the fact that NSW hasn't recorded a locally transmitted case in more than 40 days, Cr Aubin doesn't expect there will be any COVID fallout from the Bathurst 500.

"They are keeping everything to the rules and regulations, and I find it quite safe," he said.

However, should there be cause for concern, a drive-through testing clinic is in place at the Cooke Hockey Complex will operate through to March 5.