A prominent Perth hospitality operator believes the coronavirus pandemic will change the face of the hospitality industry forever.

Owner of The Court Hotel Bree Maddox told Mark Gibson the JobKeeper scheme needs to be extended beyond September to save the industry.

“I’m not hearing many good stories at all,” said Ms Maddox

“I’m hearing about a lot of very scared, a lot of very stressed people who have invested a lot [in their venue], it could all be wiped out very quickly.”

She also adds Perth’s vibrancy depends on hospitality venues staying open.

“We need the brick and mortar business to be able to survive in this climate.”

Phase 3 easing of restrictions was announced on Friday with Health Minister Roger Cook telling Oliver Peterson dancing was still prohibited, citing the situation in South Korea where a single case going to a nightclub caused a second wave of COVID-19.

Ms Maddox said no venue wants to be the cause of another outbreak but encourages people to “get out of the house”.

“Everyone is welcoming of the easing of restrictions. If we have to adapt to meet it then that’s what we’ll do.

“Ok, we can’t have a sweaty dance floor but we can still play some good music and talk to friends and socialise, have someone else cook you dinner and just get out of the house.”

 

 

 

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