Redcliffe Leagues Club forced to let 200 staff go as pubs and clubs forced to close

‘A very, very sad day’ is how the CEO of one of southeast Queensland’s largest community sporting clubs, Redcliffe Leagues Club, describes the moment he had to tell staff their jobs were gone.

THE Redcliffe Leagues Club is one of many sporting clubs forced to shut its doors this week in a bid to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Leagues Club CEO Tony Murphy said they started to prepare for the possibility of a complete shut down when the takeaway only restrictions were imposed on March 18.

Australian companies hiring amid coronavirus pandemic

Qld COVID-19 hot spots – Where are they?

Opinion: Time to consider postponing Qld election

Tony Murphy, CEO of Redcliffe Leagues Club during happier times. Photo: Jamie Hanson

He said between the Leagues Club, gym and health centre about 200 staff where now without a job.

“(It was a) very, very sad day but my staff were very understanding,” Mr Murphy said.

“They are the best.”

Mr Murphy said work would continue on the $6.5 million stadium upgrade, unless further restrictions are put in place.

The new grandstand, once complete, will increase the stadium’s seated capacity to 10,000 spectators.

Moreton Bay Regional Council Acting Mayor Mike Charlton, Redcliffe Dolphins chairman Bob Jones, Federal LNP MP Luke Howarth, Moreton Bay Regional Councillor Peter Flannery at Stage 3 Dolphin Stadium sod turning. Photo Dominika Lis

There has been no instruction on how long the shut down on gyms, sporting facilities, pubs, clubs and other venues will be in place for.

BUSINESS STILL OPEN FOR BUSINESS

“Of course we will bounce back,” Mr Murphy said.

“On the first day back, whenever it is, we will be at the front door welcoming our members and guests.”

Mr Murphy said the whole community had a role to play in battling this virus.

“We all need to comply with our governments guidelines and we will defeat this virus! Stay home as much as you can please,” he said.

“We need to work as a community, I just wish everyone all the best.”

The Peninsula’s cafes and restaurants are doing their best to stay open, offering new takeaway menus and non-contact home delivery.