Public urged to stay safe in venues

A NEW campaign backed by the Tasmanian Hospitality Association and state government has been launched to encourage the public to be COVID-safe in venues.

The “Play it Safe” initiative will be rolled out on television, social media and in venues, encouraging patrons to respect staff, follow directions and embrace a “new normal”.

The campaign includes promoting the importance of contact tracing, using hand sanitiser and practising social distancing.

The THA said abuse of hospitality staff was rare but was still occurring in some venues.

“It is easy to become complacent when we’re out and about enjoying ourselves,’’ THA chief executive Steve Old said. “I’ve done it myself, walking into a venue and forgetting to use the sanitiser.

“That’s why it’s important for us to do our best to make COVID-safe behaviours our new normal and to follow and respect staff directions.

“We hope this campaign serves as a constant reminder of the actions we must still take to protect ourselves and each other”.

Liberal Lyons MP Mark Shelton said the state government had provided $150,000 to support the campaign.

“We know that the hospitality industry was one of the most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and frontline staff are working hard to keep Tasmanians safe,’’ he said.

“I urge you to be kind, patient and follow the rules to support our hospitality workers and your favourite pub, club, cafe or restaurant.

“We all have a part to play — register your details for contact tracing, wash your hands and practise social distancing.”

Tasmanian hospitality venues were among those businesses hardest hit by COVID19 restrictions, with nightclubs and pubs in particular suffering from prolonged governmentenforced closures.