Food Businesses Set To Mobilise

HALF-WAY through a meeting of 20 local food business owners at the Scone RSL this afternoon, news came through that further lockdown measures will implemented in NSW in 48 hours, forcing the shutdown of clubs, pubs, restaurants, bars and cafes to the public, but leaving the door open for home delivery services.

Although it was anticipated, the feeling in the room was palpable.

As they digested the news, the group began discussing how they could adapt their businesses to a home delivery model.

Both the Prime Minister and Premier have mentioned take-away and home delivery as an options for businesses. More information is available on the NSW Government website, however the website is experiencing difficulties.

Steve Guihot from the Scone Chamber of Commerce and Lee Watts from the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre will be working to develop “Scuber”, utilising volunteers, to set up home deliveries to people in the local community.

Local food services owners discussed ways to ensure they meet food standards for delivery and access hot boxes.

Thankfully many of the Neighbourhood Resouce Centre volunteers have already undertaken food handling training for the Breakfast Van and some businesses will be able to utilise their own staff and vehicles for deliveries.

Jane Ryan, from Fox Wealth Advisory was on hand to explain some of the financial measures announced by the federal government, which local business owners may be able to access.

Casual staff were encouraged to apply for centrelink support online, to help supplement their income during these uncertain times.

Our local food businesses will be working hard in coming days to ensure they can deliver food to our doors during the coming months, when many of us may be in self-isolation. PLEASE support local businesses in anyway you can.

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