Freedoms are confusing, restrictive

There is a mixed reaction to the easing of COVID-19 lockdowns, with confusion being a common element.

The NSW Government’s roadmap to recovery gave way to the lifting of many restrictions for those who have received two COVID-19 vaccination shots on Monday.

Some residents can’t enter pubs, clubs, restaurants, non-essential retail venues or Council services due to the new rules. Those with only one vaccine shot, or less, only have access to essential services.

Places such as gyms, places of worship, sporting facilities, non-essential businesses and personal services (such as a massage) have reopened only to the double vaccinated.

There is the fear that the policy will take regional areas backwards rather than forwards.

Proof of double vaccination status is now mandatory, with a digital certificate to be shown to enter such public organisations and businesses.

Boorowa Services Club Secretary Manager Garrett Robinson said there is a lot more onus on the business.

“We’ve found it’s almost created another class of people,” Mr Robinson said.

“Some people are not happy with the Club. We’re copping the brunt of the government’s decision.”

“It’s a real challenge for the older demographic. We’re helping the oldies navigate through the MyGov and Medicare portals.”

He said many patrons are not tech-savvy which is making the process difficult for them.

“In a time when we’re trading at half capacity it’s increasing the costs. We’re in a worse position than when we were closed,” he said.

“I don’t think this is anything we can resolve. We’ll have to make the most of the situation until the first of December.”

Given unvaccinated people will have ‘greater freedoms’ on December 1, Mr Robinson isn’t the only business owner questioning the logic.

Fingers are crossed that everything will go well on Saturday morning with the return of Young Farmers’ Market at Anderson Park, Young.

There will be only two entrances, with volunteers checking for double vaccination certificates. Bunting will mark off all other entry ways through the park.

All stallholders will be double vaccinated and wearing masks. Social distancing is essential and patrons are asked to be safe and sensible.

• Topics:

• Covid-19