Coronavirus: Mudgee, surrounds businesses enter into forced closure

On Sunday, following an emergency national cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that pubs, clubs, cinemas, gyms and places of worship would cease trading from noon Monday, while restaurants and cafes were instructed to switch to takeaway only.

However, supermarkets, petrol stations, pharmacies and home delivery services will continue to run.

In order to dodge the forced closure, The Lawson Park Hotel have taken on the advice from the PM, now offering take-away and home delivery.

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The pub took to social media on March 21 to make the announcement, suggesting it is a way to 'move with the times'.

Duty Manager Lisa Walsh said the idea to convert to takeaway came about late last week and was received well by all involved.

"Stefano came up with it as a way to help everybody, we decided it on Friday and announced it on Saturday morning," Walsh said.

"We all think it's a great idea, it helps us stay open and keep working a bit longer."

While the coronavirus pandemic will have a significant impact on local businesses, Walsh said The Lawson will continue to do all they can to keep Mudgee happy.

"As our new slogan goes, 'if you can't come to the pub, we'll bring the pub to you'."

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Mudgee Chamber of Commerce president Andrew Palmer said the restrictions will undoubtedly have an impact on small businesses right across the region, placing great importance on supporting each other wherever possible.

"There's so much uncertainty around the timelines and what can and can't happen but it's going to put a significant amount of pressure on Mudgee business.

"Travel restrictions will also add to that because that will affect our tourist marketplace."

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Palmer added that with the ever changing situation of COVID-19, it would be best for business owners to educate themselves as much as possible.

"They need to assess their own business structure and formulate a plan to manage as best they can over the next few months," he said.

"The State government is releasing a lot of stimulus and support for small businesses so it's important that business owners take the time to educate themselves on what support might be available and do the work to be able to receive it."

A collection of businesses have closed including Countryfit Gym and Anytime Fitness Mudgee, while others endeavour to chase alternatives like online shopping via their websites and offering delivery options.

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