Isolation orders ‘not sustainable’ for businesses preparing to reopen
Retailers, hospitality businesses and services are itching for Monday’s reopening, but some questions have been left unanswered.
Founder of men’s clothing brand Academy Brand Anthony Pitt told Ben Fordham he’s excited to reopen his Sydney stores.
“Our business here has been in a coma, but on Monday we come back to life, and … nothing is going to dampen or take away from that.”
However, he argued some of the health restrictions don’t make sense for businesses, including orders requiring fully-vaccinated staff and their close contacts to isolate when they test positive.
“That’s not sustainable or viable.
“Is it a bit of a dog’s breakfast? Yes it is. Has there been a lack of direction on reopening? Yes.
“Part of the reason it’s all been so vague is because the answer might just be a pineapple.”
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Publican at Camperdown’s Alfred Hotel Bill Smith said patrons will be expected to wear a face mask when not eating or drinking, such as in a bathroom.
A lot of his patrons work at the RPA nearby.
“We want to welcome them back for a bite to eat and a beer, in a safe environment.”
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Flow Athletics gym owner Talitha Cummins told Ben the reduction of their regular 35 to 40-person classes to an upper limit of 20 will be “a little bit difficult for us initially”.
“Also people are required to wear masks into the gym, and we’re still trying to clarify whether that means … during strenuous exercise.”
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Hairdresser Christine Mackley is making an occasion of the day, auctioning off her first appointment to raise money for Beyond Blue.
“We’re auctioning off two ladies together; they’ll be the very first in the salon at Shear Envy Hair.
“They will enjoy a nourishing hair treatment and foils or a colour, whilst enjoying a manicure [and] champagne high tea.”
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Image: Getty