SHOP UNTIL YOU DROP
RESTRICTIONS on non-essential shopping during the coronavirus pandemic will be lifted this weekend, sparking joy for Townsville residents wanting to buy a new outfit, homewares or jewellery.
Dozens of shops that have been shut for weeks are expected to open in Townsville shopping centres tomorrow.
Willows centre manager Ian Spackman said shop openings would be staggered, with more openings expected in coming weeks.
“We have been advised that approximately another 10 will open for trade this weekend with more to follow,” Mr Spackman said.
“On Saturday you will see our major tenants, food and beverage retailers providing takeaway food options and those essential services that have traded through joined by some of our fashion and accessory brands such as Cotton On, Rockwear, Edge, Prouds and Pandora.”
Mr Spackman said a full list of shops trading would be posted on the centre’s website ahead of the weekend.
Fairfield Central senior centre manager Debbie Gelling confirmed a number of stores would reopen, joining Kmart, Coles, Woolworths, and the cafes and restaurants already trading.
“The easing of restrictions, while maintaining social distancing, will allow customers even greater access to non-essential but still sought-after goods and services,” Ms Gelling said.
“While this is only the first, small step, the changes are certainly a positive sign for the local community and retailers.”
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced a relaxation of some COVID-19 restrictions this week, saying Queensland’s low rates of infection allowed the changes.
People will also be able to go for a drive within 50km of home, ride a motorbike, jetski or boat for recreation, go for a picnic or visit a national park.
Stockland head of retail Michelle Abbey said its retail centres had remained open to give Townsville residents access to essential services and daily shopping needs.
“As we have for many years, we are committed to supporting regional communities and know our town centres help sustain important local jobs,” she said.
“We welcome the Queensland Government’s announcement to begin easing COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions from May 2, 2020 and allow shopping for nonessential items while practising social distancing.
“The announcement recognises the role retail town centres play in supporting local economies and is an important first step in helping many of our retailers to reopen their doors.”
While some specialty stores will reopen from tomorrow, popular department store Myer is expected to be closed at least until May 11.
Castletown centre manager Katherine Langsford wanted to thank the community for their ongoing support of local retailers.
“We remain committed to continuing to provide a safe environment for our customers and the implemented procedures including the installation of hand sanitisers at entrances, signage and social distancing guidance and advice will continue,” she said.
“A number of our retailers have reopened over the past couple of weeks including Café Society, The Coffee Club, The Carvery, City Beach, The Athlete’s Foot and Lovisa with more reopening over the coming weeks.”
>>For the full list of shops that are reopening from Saturday, visit townsvillebulletin.com.au