News

small business Health | July 09, 2020

Support local, stay local and keep safe

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy is encouraging people in Lowan to support local businesses and get out and explore their own backyard – safely – in the midst of border closures and heightened restrictions in other areas.

Ms Kealy said while it was crucial that everyone remained vigilant and continued to practice physical distancing, the lockdowns in metropolitan areas and the inability to holiday interstate provided a great incentive for people in the Lowan electorate to support local tourism and businesses.

“People in our region have largely obeyed the restrictions, and we have avoided returning to the stage three restrictions that have been reintroduced in Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire. We have to keep following the rules to keep the virus under control and ensure our businesses, particularly in tourism and hospitality, can recover,” she said.

“We have so many wonderful attractions that can be enjoyed while still maintaining physical distancing practices and adhering to gathering limits.

“With activities like team sports and social functions that tie up many people’s weekends now on hold, it’s a great opportunity to get out and explore what’s on offer in our own backyard.

“This is a chance for us to take advantage of the break from our usually busy social calendars and enjoy some new experiences with our families and loved ones, while keeping our money local.”

Ms Kealy said The Nationals had been calling for restrictions on hospitality businesses in regional areas to be eased to allow up to 50 customers, as was initially planned for late June.

“The Premier has indicated this is under consideration, which is a good sign,” she said.

“Many of our businesses have been hit hard by restrictions over the past four months, and it is imperative we continue to support them.”

Ms Kealy said businesses were obliged to refuse service to anyone who resided in areas where stage 3 “stay at home” restrictions were in place.

She said a reference guide with a list of affected municipalities and postcodes was available at emmakealy.com/municipalities_and_respective_postcodes_affected_by_stage_3_restrictions.