Shock photos show sex shops, gun stores remain open amid Gold Coast Covid-19 lockdown
Sex stores, gun shops, car washes and fashion boutiques have been called out for staying open despite the Gold Coast’s Covid-19 lockdown. Are they really essential? HAVE YOUR SAY
Central
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WITH many businesses forced to close, questions are being asked and eyebrows raised about some remaining open, including sex shops, gun stores and fashion boutiques.
This is despite the lockdown forcing workplaces, gyms and some schools in the southeast to stay shuttered.
The people behind these businesses maintain they are following the rules and are simply trying survive the lockdown.
But Surfers Paradise Beach Cafe owner Arthur De Snoo said it was “unfair” to see some retail stores able to trade while restaurants and cafes could not trade at full capacity.
“Surf shops are open but we’re closed (for dine-in) - there’s not much logic in it,” Mr De Snoo said.
Gold Coast Central Chamber of Commerce president Martin Hall said many business owners he had spoken to were confused about the rules.
“This is where we really need some clarity on this,” Mr Hall said.
“At the same time, we need to be mindful that these are small businesses.
“You can’t blame a business owner for trying to keep their head above water in the absence of clarity from the government.”
With so much confusion out there, here’s how Queensland Health defines “essential retail”, not limited to:
– shopping centres with essential services
– supermarkets, greengrocers, butchers and bakeries
– health food and supplement stores
– uniform and protective equipment outlets
– pharmacies
– pet supply shops and pet care
– petrol stations
– electronics and technology retailers
– newsagents and post offices
– speciality toy stores
– hardware stores
– basic clothing
Businesses that must close in the lockdown areas include:
– Cinemas and theatres
– Museums, galleries and libraries
– Hairdressers
– Beauty salons
– Nightclubs and casinos
– Sports stadiums
– Gyms
(Source: Qld Health)
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