Bar trade halts for our hoteliers

The Crossroads Hotel, like all the pubs in Australia, is reeling from the Australian Government’s decision to restrict social gathering venues.

On Saturday, The Crossroads Hotel held its final bar opening for an uncertain period of time.

It was limited to 85 people to abide by the restrictions on ‘social distancing.’

Yesterday, at midday, The Crossroads Hotel was forced to shut its bar and restrict its restaurant to take-away service only, something which owner Dave Hamel certainly never expected to do three weeks ago.

Mr Hamel, who bought the Crossroads Hotel in February 2018, said the unprecedented event has taken its toll on everyone.

“I’m a bit lost for words,” he admitted.

“With the hotel closures in town and the closure of all non-essential businesses – I just don’t know what to say.

“I’m just trying my best to hang in there, under the circumstances and it’s difficult.”

Mr Hamel said he has already had to remould his business around the new laws.

“I’ve had to try and restructure the business, because we’re offering a take-away and delivery model for our food.

“And I’m trying to offer accommodation and meals for people coming into the area.”

Despite the business uncertainty, Mr Hamel is still looking to help out the community however he can.

“All I want to do is try and help the local people of Narrabri,” said Mr Hamel.

“They’ve helped me since the first day I came here.

“Their support for my business has been unbelievable.

“And I want to try and help people as best as I can.

“For example, if I can get some toilet paper, I’d love to be able to get people toilet paper.

“I can get access to those sort of things and I can get access to other goods, too. I will try my hardest to get people things but we can only do what we can do.”

The Crossroads Hotel’s bar will remain closed for the foreseeable future and the hotel will be offering take-away and special offers from its restaurant.