Harp Hotel Wollongong fined over alleged COVID breach
A popular Wollongong pub has been fined over an alleged COVID breach, with police claiming partons were standing up, hugging and that there was no COVID marshall present.
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A popular Wollongong pub has been issued a $5000 fine over alleged breaches of the Public Health Order.
About 11.30pm on Friday 2 October 2020, licensing police from Wollongong Police District attended The Harp Hotel on Corrimal Street, as part of Operation Pariac, a high-visibility regional police operation targeting licensed venues.
It’s alleged large groups of people were seen to be congregating, hugging and dancing. No COVID safety marshals were observed to be enforcing physical distancing requirements or the venue’s COVID safety plan.
Following inquiries, the venue was issued with a $5000 fine earlier today, for failing to comply with requirements of a Public Health Order – COVID-19.
The maximum penalty for contravening a Public Health Order is a fine of up to $11,000 and/or six months imprisonment.
Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Evan Quarmby said police would continue to work with businesses in relation to their COVID-19 safety plans and provide advice and guidance.
“The safety of the community is paramount, and we will continue to take action against those businesses that choose to ignore ministerial directions,” he said.
“When we launched Operation Summer Safe last month, we made it clear to the community that during the warmer months it will not be business as usual.
“We have been through the education and engagement phase, and we will not hesitate to move into enforcement for those who leave us with no alternative.
“We have been working closely with our partner agencies and local businesses to make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to the health and safety of our community,” Supt Quarmby said.