Hotel ‘takes strides’ for grand return

Lynch And Raddon   TBW Newsgroup
RENOVATION WARRIORS: Grand Hotel employees Sophie Raddon and Juquinta Lynch have used other skills while trade has been restricted. Picture: J.L. “FRED” SMITH
Lynch And Raddon TBW Newsgroup
RENOVATION WARRIORS: Grand Hotel employees Sophie Raddon and Juquinta Lynch have used other skills while trade has been restricted. Picture: J.L. “FRED” SMITH

THE Grand Hotel is taking giant strides to being a fully functioning hospitality venue after 10 weeks of restrictions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a press conference this week, Premier Steven Marshall announced South Australian pubs would allow up to 80 people from June 1.

Social-distancing measures must be adhered to and pubs must contain patrons to groups of 20 in rooms or areas within the business.

Pubs will be allowed to serve alcohol without a meal from June 1 provided patrons are seated.

Grand Hotel manager Leandra Worrell said the business would be viable as the hotel had three dining rooms upstairs and one downstairs and 20 persons were permitted in each area.

Although the State Government is not allowing the resumption of poker machines at any venue at this time, Ms Worrell said other aspects of the Grand Hotel including the bottle department, one dining room and kitchen were operational.

“The kitchen has almost a full menu and we are waiting on deliveries,” Ms Worrell said.

“We are accepting bookings again for our accommodation and we have some for the June long weekend.

“Our staff have been busy painting and cleaning while new carpet is being laid.

“The renovations include electrical work and the removal of some walls.

“We will be ready to go with the upstairs renovations by Monday.”

As of next Monday, 50 people will be able to attend funerals and gatherings of 20 people will be permitted.

Gyms, cinemas, theatres, galleries, museums, beauty and tattoo parlours and driver training schools, will also be able to open from June 1.

Outdoor contact sport training and games will resume as of June 25.