AS we ease restrictions and find new ways to get businesses moving, it is vital that customers and venues continue to be COVID-Safe.
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Gatherings in outdoor public spaces and group bookings at restaurants will be increased to 30 people under a relaxation of COVID-19 rules.
From this Friday, October 23:
- Thirty people can gather outdoors in public spaces (previously this was 20);
- Thirty customers per booking, and 30 customers per table at hospitality venues (previously the rule was a maximum of 10);
- In addition, as of last Friday, October 16, corporate functions of up to 300 people can now be held at any appropriate premises, including at restaurants, subject to a COVID-Safe plan (previously just function centres).
These changes will provide a big boost to our hospitality venues.
We continue to remain focused on stimulating the economy, keeping businesses in business and people in jobs.
The easing of restrictions and safely increasing capacities will lead directly to more jobs and more opportunities for businesses across NSW, which is integral for the state's recovery.
It is vital that as we ease restrictions, people continue to do the right thing, stay home if unwell and get tested, even with the most minimal of symptoms.
We want to see NSW get back on track in a COVID-Safe way and this is another important step in opening up our regional communities.
Good luck to students
STUDENTS around the region started to sit for their HSC written exams this week and I'd like to wish them all the best during what has been a challenging year.
Our students have done so well, we are all so proud of them and I know they have these final few weeks covered.
There is support all around you. Make sure you ask if you need help - there are online resources along with your friends and family ready to assist.
This year has thrown up plenty of challenges and our HSC students have met them with the help of their school, family and friends - and now the broader community wants students to know they have got this.
My message to students is to continue to take care of your wellbeing, reach out for support or advice if you need it and keep active. We are all behind you.
Good luck to all you amazing students of 2020. Go get 'em!
We're able to remember
REMEMBRANCE Day is an important event for veterans and the broader community to pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
The easing of restrictions to public gatherings for Remembrance Day means wreath-laying ceremonies and other memorial services can take place with up to 100 people present to pay their respects.
The one-off exemption to the Public Health Order increases the current restrictions from 20 people to 100 people, to gather at community war memorials, provided they adhere to social distancing measures and have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place.
Australians have paused to reflect and pay tribute on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month since 1918, so this is welcome news for our veteran community.
The exemption is in place for Remembrance Day Services held before November 12.
With this year's Anzac Day commemorations cancelled due to the pandemic, it is particularly meaningful for the veteran community to see Remembrance Day gatherings taking place.
Local Remembrance Day services have a significant role in regional and rural communities, where the incidence of COVID-19 has been low in recent months.
