BOOGIE back to the dance floor and raise a cold one as the light at the end of the tunnel inches closer with a major rollback of COVID-19 restrictions.
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At the state continues to record zero community transmission, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced the two-square-metre rule will be expanded for clubs and retail and venue caps will be removed from Monday.
The news warranted a glass of champagne from Wests Entertainment Group chief executive Rod Laing.
"This is one of the best Christmas presents we could have received for the business which has idled on one cylinder for so long," he said.
"To get some common sense and consistency is just fantastic, in fact it's must to our ears.
"I might even have a champagne."
Wests Leagues Club has capacity for 3300 but has been limited to 10 per cent of that for months and Mr Laing said the changes will allow him to put staff back on the books.
Dance floors can have up to 50 people indoors and singers can jump back on the stage with the same amount of performers.
Under the changes, maximum capacity caps will be removed subject to the two-square-metre rule for hospitality venues, weddings, funerals, agricultural shows, corporate events and religious services.
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With Christmas just around the corner, the news has been welcomed by Tamworth retailers who were still limited to one person per four-square-metres.
The announcement reflects the opportunity for businesses to capitalise on Christmas spending, Business NSW regional manager Joe Townsend said. "It definitely helps the retailers and consumers shop with more comfort because they don't have to look before they leap with limits being much larger.
"We should see an economic impact along with our shop local campaigns at the moment; it gives people assurance that the government sees retail as safe."
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
