Alice Springs businesses not immune to global effects of COVID-19

EFFECTS of the coronavirus pandemic have spread far and wide even reaching the isolation of Alice Springs.

The Gap View Hotel in Alice Springs

EFFECTS of the coronavirus pandemic have spread far and wide even reaching the isolation of Alice Springs.

Even one of the finest man-made attractions of Alice Springs, the Alice Springs Golf Course, is under threat.

Club manager Nick Prus, who has had to lay off most of the staff, said the clubhouse was a major fundraiser for the course and the loss of revenue through its complete closure would be significant.

The popular bingo, a major fundraiser for the Desert Sports Foundation, at the Gillen Club was cancelled even before the club closed its doors.

DSF president Murray Stewart was informed by the Gillen Club that, due to physical distancing regulations, both the revenue raising bingo and monthly raffles have been cancelled.

Stewart is pragmatic about the situation saying that the DSF committee clearly understands it is not the only affected organisation.

“We need to keep a cool head so we can come out the other side in good shape,” he said.

The closure of the club and pubs bars has led to many people losing jobs — Club Eastside alone has stood down about 30 staff.

Gap View Hotel has also reduced staff numbers.

Co-owner Di Loechel said a meeting was held on Monday when the situation was put to the staff.

“A number of the casual staff who had other jobs offered to be stood down so others could keep their only job,” she said.

“They were absolutely wonderful.

“There has been a cut in hours and staff have been kept employed in other areas of the hotel, such as the bottle shop which is open, giving them a wider experience.

“We are also doing takeaway meals. The menu is online and orders can be made online or by phone.

“The meals can be collected at the bottle shop or staff can take them out to the car park.

“It is what it is and you have to adapt.”