It certainly is unpredictable times for businesses at the moment and Lakes Bowls Club is no exception with the venue closing once more last Tuesday.
The venue had reopened in late June with the knowledge that 50 patrons would be allowed in each section, but this was changed at the last minute and so they had been trading with only 20 diners per room.
“As part of our regular review of systems and guidelines we have made a decision that we feel is in the best interest of our staff, members and community,” general manager, Michelle Fielding, said.
Bowling will return to greens access only, for members only.
“When our region gets to open with up to 50 patrons per area we will be back,” Michelle said.
She stressed that their main priority is to keep staff, patrons and the community safe.
“I want to thank everyone for their ongoing support,” she said.
For local customers there are still options to go out for a meal or drinks.
Lakes Sports and Community Club is opening Thursday to Sunday, with shortened hours.
They are open from 10am until noon, then 3pm to 5.45pm for drinks, reopening at 6pm to 8pm for dinner. Dinner bookings are essential. Takeaway is available.
This allows for thorough cleaning and control of numbers in the venue.
The club is following strict guidelines, checking identification with only members of the club being given permission to enter the premises. No persons from lockdown areas are permitted at the venue.
The Central Hotel has succeded in staying open to locals with safety strategies in place.
They are open from noon everyday for lunch and dinner and a drink at the bar.
“We are the COVID police being very strict in checking IDs, anyone from Melbourne or Mitchell Shire is not permitted entry,” owner, Allison Murphy, said.
“It is difficult sometimes but we have to protect our community.”
Albert & Co is open for lunch and take-away and on Friday and Saturday night for dinner.
Miriam’s is taking a short break until the end of the month.
Pinocchios is another option and is open for dinner nightly from 5pm and take-away and is also open for lunches.
Red Bluff Brewery is also open for take-away beer sales and is offering a food truck experience on Friday and Saturday nights.
Owner, Wayne Burnett, explained that in the future he hopes to have numerous food trucks at the venue to offer different cuisines.
“At the moment we have The Tank which serves pizza, souvlaki and a lamb and goats cheese salad, which is proving very popular,” he said.
There are a number of takeaway venues still operating.
IMAGE: Emily Derham and Lily Derham take an order from Eric Sjerp and Naomi Sjerp who are return customers at The Tank Wood Fired Pizza.