Penrith clubs have begun announcing their closures while restaurants are moving to take-away only offerings following tough new restrictions announced by the Federal Government tonight.
With the Coronavirus pandemic continuing to escalate, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed the pubs, clubs, restaurants, indoor sporting venues, gyms, cinemas, casinos, churches and other licenced venues will close from Midday on Monday.
It means high profile local venues like Panthers will be forced to close their doors in an unprecedented move that is set to cost thousands of local jobs.
“Due to the upgraded social distancing measures announced by the Prime Minister tonight, Panthers Penrith will be closed from tomorrow until further notice,” Panthers said on its Facebook page.
“We will keep you informed on future updates via our website or Facebook. Stay safe Panthers community.”
St Marys Band Club also confirmed it would be closed from tomorrow.
Local restaurants like Downtown Brooklyn have confirmed they’ll stay open for take-away and delivery offerings only.
“Thank you to all that had their last dine in meal with us tonight. It was definitely the final countdown. You guys rammed us harder than Scomo currently is!” Downtown Brooklyn said on its Facebook page.
“But, unfortunately, it has come to an end. We closed our doors for the final time tonight for dine-in.”
At this stage, schools will remain open in New South Wales.
“All leaders agreed that children should go to school tomorrow. Leaders agreed that we cannot see children lose an entire year of their education as a result of school closures caused by COVID-19,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.
#BREAKING Prime Minister Scott Morrison has outlined new rules following his meeting with state and territory leaders. Stage 1 measures will be reviewed on a monthly basis, but are expected to be in place for six months. #covid19au #coronavirusaus pic.twitter.com/FysvLMYrNP
— 10 News First (@10NewsFirst) March 22, 2020
“Leaders committed to the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) advice that says that it is safe to keep schools open.”
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.