Business Blooming Again After Long Weekend

THE long weekend provided Scone with a much-needed business boost after months of hardship due to the COVID19 restrictions.

Businesses that were open across the long weekend received support from both local and out of town customers who flocked to the horse capital for a weekend getaway. 

Jen Tomasetti, manager of the B&B Russley Rural Retreat said out of town travelers heavily contributed to increased business.

“Everybody was fully booked, it was absolutely brilliant I couldn’t have been happier with the weekend and my guests were just thrilled so yeah… we’re back!” said Jen.

The Roberts, Watt, and Smillie from Sydney’s northern beaches enjoying breakfast at the B&B Russley Retreat. Photo by Jen Tomasetti.

Annie Baker, owner of the Asser House Café said the café was at its busiest since the restrictions had eased.

“It was crazy, we’d forgotten what it was like!” said Annie.

“A very busy weekend with lots of people around and lots of travelers,” she said.

Local businesses were also happy to see people complying with the new social distancing regulations.

Romy Kelaher, manager of the Belmore Hotel said that although some restrictions may be painful, everybody has been following the rules.

“It’s really great to have everyone on board and have them be understanding of what we’re allowed to do regarding restrictions,” said Romy.

New regulations require all customers to register their attendance when visiting local eateries as well as maintaining the 4-square-meter social distancing rule.

“We’ve got a good system now where we’ve got numbers on tables and have started registering guests with a QR code which makes it nice and easy,” said Annie Baker.

“Everyone’s aware that there are restrictions and everyone worked really well together,” she said.

However, one key business is still waiting to reopen its doors and reports it may not be back to regular opening hours until July 2020.

The Cottage has opened for Friday lunchtime and takeaway services since restrictions were put in place.

Colin Selwood, owner of the Cottage said he is currently focusing on restaffing and will reevaluate the potential re-opening the popular restaurant on the 1st of July.

“Getting staff in the county is really tough,” said Colin. 

“We’re hoping people in the city who can’t work because so many restaurants have closed are going to be looking for work,” he said.

“Hopefully those people might want to relocate and that’s what we’re looking for,” he said.

The Cottage will continue to supply takeaway until there is enough staff to commence full operation.