Casino reopens, keeping strict rules
The Garden Route Casino is readier than ever to receive visitors after reopening its doors for the first time since the Covid-19 lockdown was announced in March.
Thrilled regulars this week were keen to visit the casino, although they were thoroughly screened according to all the Covid-19 protocols.
“It was most certainly not a question of simply opening the doors and returning to business as usual. We are being thoroughly regulated and will never risk not complying with the most stringent of standards,” ensures Ryan Nicholas, general manager of the casino.
Nicholas says the Gaming Board ensures all the prescribed Covid-19 regulations are adhered to at casinos. “We are following these to the letter of the law. In fact, at the Garden Route Casino, we are probably overcautious,” he reiterates.
According to regulations, the casino can currently operate at 50% capacity. Only slot machines are currently in operation, not gambling tables. “We are allowed to operate one machine on, one machine off. However in adherence to the social distancing rule being 1.5 metres, we have opted for one machine on, two machines off.” We anticipate that this be will be increased.”
For screening purposes, only members are currently allowed on the casino floor. “Non-members are welcome to register on arrival to the casino – it is free and only takes a minute”
For added safety, Perspex screens have been fixed between some of the slot machines.
“All staff working in direct contact with customers wear both a face mask and a face shield. Surfaces are sanitised constantly in all areas where we are receiving guests.” Nicholas confirms that all staff had to undergo thorough training regarding the Covid-19 protocols prior to the casino reopening.
Self-help stations where hands can be sanitised and sanitised wipes for the machines are available throughout the casino floor. “We are also running announcements on our public address system in order to give our visitors constant reminders of the Covid-19 protocols.”
None of the casino’s restaurants are open yet.
“We are looking at opening the Bravo Lounge as soon as possible and therefore we are keeping a close eye on developments as regulations are gradually lifted.” The new buffet restaurant, Billy G’s, will only open much later. As for the Garden Court Hotel, this will be reopened at limited capacity in the near future.
“It is in our best interest to stick to all the rules in order to create a safe space for our visitors. Therefore, we are doing our utmost to keep the casino Covid-19 free,” Nicholas concludes.