Business community astounded by the level of support shown by Redcliffe Peninsula customers

A restaurant owner with more than 40 years experience says the level of community support during the COVID-19 crisis is “incredible” – with more people than ever vowing to buy local.

Nick, Virginia and Peter Tzimas at The Golden Ox. Photo: Kylie Knight

Tough new restrictions put in place by the Federal Government mean restaurants and cafes are now restricted to serving takeaways only as the COVID-19 outbreak continues to spread across the nation.

Cinemas, pubs, clubs, gyms and other indoor sporting facilities have been forced to close.

This coronavirus article is unlocked and free to read in the interest of community health and safety. For full access to our journalism - and to download the digital edition of the newspaper as it is printed every day - subscribe here or couriermail.com.au/subscribe

Commerce Industry Redcliffe Peninsula president Nick Tzimas, and owner of The Golden Ox restaurant at Margate, said many small businesses were making big changes in order to keep their doors open.

$1 for 28 days: Full digital subscription

Mr Tzimas said his business would start offering takeaway options this week.

“We need to keep as many people employed as we can,” Mr Tzimas said.

The long time small business owner said he had been overwhelmed by the amount of support the community was showing all local business owners.

The Golden Ox is a popular place to go for special occasions. Picture: Bradley Cooper

“We have had a lot of requests and phone calls from people asking if we would be doing takeaway,” Mr Tzimas said. “It is an incredible thing.

“It is very encouraging to see, it is what Redcliffe Peninsula does best.”

Other Peninsula restraints are also offering takeaway and non-contact delivery and online ordering such as Pilpel and Cafe Diversity.

Popular burger place Beardy’s Bar & Kitchen is now only operating as a takeaway venue and is encouraging all customers to order over the phone.

While the community is throwing its support behind the businesses that can stay open, many have been forced to close and put staff off.

MORETON BUSINESS FIGHT TO KEEP DOORS OPEN

Mr Tzimas said the chamber of commerce had received many calls from concerned business owners about how to handle this difficult situation.

“We need more financial support from the governments,” Mr Tzimas said.

“People can’t wait weeks to receive payments and financial relief they need it immediately.”

Mr Tzimas said chamber members would be talking with all business owners to provide advice and help where possible.

“We need to keep things and people going,” Mr Tzimas said.

Redcliffe Leagues Club has been forced to close its doors today.

“In light of the recent announcement from the Prime Minister we regret to inform that we won’t be open for business (Monday),” a statement on the club’s Facebook page read.

“Please know your patronage is the backbone of Redcliffe Leagues Club and we appreciate your support. We will be updating you in the coming days about how our service has evolved and what we can provide that are well within the Prime Ministers guidelines.”

The Redcliffe RSL made a similar announcement via social media:

“Due to Government directions announced tonight, Redcliffe RSL will be closed from (Monday) until further notice. We will update you with any changes as they come to hand.

“We thank you for your ongoing support.”