Territorians expected to spend $4 million as NT pubs, restaurants reopen

TERRITORIANS are expected to spend more than $4 million today as pubs, restaurants and cafes finally reopen as a part of NT’s coronavirus restriction rollback

The Darwin Ski Club has carried out final preparations before their big reopening event tonight. Staff Beany Chang, Paul Gurr and Anais Hervé share a drink by the pool. Picture: Che Chorley

TERRITORIANS are expected to spend more than $4 million today as pubs, restaurants and cafes finally reopen as a part of NT’s coronavirus restriction rollback.

About 3000 people will return to their jobs today as pubs, cafes, restaurants, gyms, and beauticians across the NT reopen at noon with some restrictions.

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Hospitality NT CEO Alex Bruce said close to 450 hospitality businesses were eager to throw open their doors and welcome back customers today, including several which have been inundated with bookings.

“The work has been done, our venues are clean and safe for Territorians to enjoy once more,” he said.

“For many businesses today is not about profit, but re-engaging with our valued workforce and customers.

“We estimate 2,400 workers will be back at work in hospitality businesses across the Territory.

“Our message to the community is clear; thankyou for all your support over the past two months, we welcome you back, enjoy yourselves and please follow the rules.”

Under stage two restrictions, anyone going to a licenced premises will be required to have a meal with their drinks and limited to a two hour time frame. You will be allowed to dine in groups of up to 10.

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Darwin’s Ski Club has made the most of their time while closed to spruce up the venue before it reopens with a “big bang” on Friday night.

President Paul Winter said a refurbished kids’ swimming pool and a brand new wine list, as well as food vane and live music will welcome the club’s first patrons after restrictions are lifted.

“The food vans we’ll have are Paella at Sunset, Supa Slushie and Roadkill Cafe which do yummy burgers,” Mr Winter said.

“We plan to do it (the vans and live music) potentially permanently because there aren’t any markets on a Friday night in Darwin.

“Depending on its success, we will continue it.”

Chief Minister Michael Gunner encouraged Territorians to support reopening businesses by getting out today and buying local.

“Territorians deserve this,” he said.

“We’ve worked hard to be the safest place in the nation which means we are the first in the nation to get back to business and back to work.

“We’ve got a long road ahead of us, but today marks the start of the Territory’s comeback.”

About 1400 businesses in the NT have submitted their COVID-19 Safety Plan checklists as of yesterday.