With a hint of pre-COVID-19 lifestyle and a generous splash of community spirit, a new initiative #LocalNightIn is serving up a plateful of support to local hospitality businesses.
A creation cooked up by Taylor Wines and Support Local, the two companies curated the #LocalNightIn Festival set to take place over May 29 to 31. Celebrating beloved local establishments that have been operating through delivery and takeaway, the weekend long event encourages Australians to support their favourite local by purchasing a meal and sharing an image on social media using the #LocalNightIn hashtag to spread the word that Australia’s local restaurants are still open for business.
Amongst stand downs, staff lay offs, and many hospitality businesses struggling to stay afloat, the response to the COVID-19 pandemic has stripped the hospitality industry to its bare bones. As we emerge into phase one of restriction easing, a small number of venues to open their doors to 10 people at once. Even so, the pandemic’s wrath on the hospitality industry is far from over.
“The easing of restrictions is a positive but very small initial step forward. It’s been an interesting experience for guests a Catalina,” owner of Sydney’s Catalina Restaurant Judy McMahon said. “The support from our local community who have been using our takeaway and delivery options has been crucial and gives us some comfort that we’ll be able to keep our doors open until things return to normal.”
As a third generation winemaker, Mitchell Taylor of Taylor Wines understands the challenge of operating a business in such an uncertain climate. “Restrictions are easing slowly across the country, and at varying stages, so whether you’re enjoying your first night out in a while, or only able to enjoy a restaurant quality meal at home, we want to inspire everyone across Australia to host their own #LocalNightIn event to support the industry,” Taylor said. “As restrictions ease across the country, let’s all look forward to celebrating a local night out again soon.”
Readers Also Enjoyed our story on #EatAloneTogether
