She lives in Wangaratta but has been staying in Albury since late May because of border difficulties.

"It's been a complete nightmare," she said.

"I've stayed at caravan parks in cabins and motels and one night we had to sleep in the car and I said to my daughter 'we're never going to do that again'.

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"I'd say it would be costing over $800 a week because accommodation is not cheap and food.

"I'm out of pocket but I love the job and working with the people."

Ms Fox was at the Albury races, doing her job as clerk of scales overseeing jockeys weigh-in, as details of the border map and permit rules were digested on Thursday.

She hopes to be home tonight to thank neighbours who have been mowing the lawns and cleaning out the fridge.

"It won't take me three hours to pack, it will probably take me five minutes," Ms Fox said.

"You never want to be put in a situation like that and I hope I never am again."