LOCAL hospitality businesses have been hit hard by the recent influx in COVID cases, with some having to temporarily close their doors or reduce their opening hours in response.
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The George Hotel and Jack Duggans Irish Pub returned to business on Monday after closing for a week due to staff shortages, while the Panorama Motel's bistro has gone from being open seven days a week to closing on Sundays and Mondays indefinitely.
One of the lucky pubs in town is Kelso's Paddy's Hotel.
Though business there has been unsteady, they are yet to be affected by staff shortages, according to manager Luke Mulligan.
"We haven't changed our hours as of yet. Obviously, if we lose some staff like other venues, we might have to reassess that, but we've been really lucky so far," he said.
"The last couple of weeks have been very up and down, we've had a lot of bookings cancel or postpone, but then just this weekend [gone by] has kind of caught us off guard - it's been really good."
Mr Mulligan said the hotel's size and its large outdoor dining area had been a big help in keeping business going over the past two years.
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The pub made the most of the occasions where it was forced to close its doors by beginning renovations on different areas.
Slowly, the tiles have been replaced, the bathrooms have been revamped and even the entrance way is looking a little fresher.
"I think we've been pretty lucky ... but we've definitely felt it like everybody else," Mr Mulligan said.
"It's certainly not been the easiest couple of years, but we're just happy to be open and happy to be serving.
"We got a fair bit done through lockdown last year ... just bit by bit freshening the place up.
"We've still got some new tables and chairs coming in the next couple of weeks."
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Many were hoping 2022 would be a fresh start, though this has not proved to be the case. Still, Mr Mulligan is remaining optimistic.
He is looking forward to Paddy's Hotel hosting a fundraiser in February for the HeartKids Foundation.
He thanked everyone who has enjoyed a meal or beverage at Paddy's Hotel over the past two years and said the local support has "been fantastic" during such tough and uncertain times.
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Amy Rees
Journalist at the Western Advocate in Bathurst since May, 2021.
Journalist at the Western Advocate in Bathurst since May, 2021.
