Canberrans say ‘cheers’ to pubs and bars reopening

Posted on 19 August, 2020

The humble “catch up bevvie” has long been an Australian staple.

Over the years it became less about the glass in your hand and more about the chance to catch up with friends and loved ones in a relaxed atmosphere; usually accompanied by a hearty meal and live music.

But for four months our country’s pubs, clubs and bars went quiet under COVID-19 restrictions. Gone were the sound of glasses clinking, the buzzing atmosphere and the live music.

That all changed this week with the introduction of Canberra’s stage three restrictions. Our pubs, clubs and bars are now back in business—just not quite as you once knew them.

Under the latest restrictions, customers can order at the bar or counter but must be seated for their drinks or meals (with the four-metre rule continuing to apply), while dancing and self-serve food services are also off the cards for now.

Live music has been given the green light, however, band members will need to stand at least two metres away from the audience and each other.

Co-owner of Braddon’s BentSpoke Brewing Co Tracy Margrain says she’s enjoyed welcoming back her many regulars this week.

“You can see people are excited about being able to enjoy time with their friends and family in a social situation,” says Tracy.

“Even with the limited capacity, there is still an inviting and fun atmosphere.”

Most Canberrans are aware of the new “normal” when heading out to enjoy dining and drinking, Tracy adds.

“I think people are used to all the signage and sanitiser,” she says.

“Our patrons are now being asked to sign in via a QR reader in line with government requirements, we have hand sanitising stations located at the entrance and at various points around the venue including individual tables. We also have total number of patrons now allowed in the venue, and each individual space upstairs, downstairs and outside.

“There are lots of new demands put on venues to ensure everybody’s safety; all we ask is for everyone to be understanding of the situation, as it’s hard on everyone.”

It’s a similar story for Woden’s Fenway Public House, with manager Michael Spaseski (feature image) saying they have “all the standard procedures” in place for their customers.

“Since we opened we’re pretty much booked out for two weeks in advance due to the small restriction capacity, so we recommend booking a table at this time,” he says.

“It’s been tough but if everyone does their part, we’ll come out the other side soon.”

Across town at The George Harcourt Inn in Hall, general manager Christine Kain says while there is a lot more work involved to simply remain operating, they have found that it has encouraged patrons to “consume more mindfully.”

“As part of our commitment to safe operations, we have health and safety advisory posters throughout the pub, ready access to sanitiser and a dedicated COVID compliance officer, so there isn’t really a possibility for patrons to forget that COVID is still around,” Christine says.

“Canberrans on the whole have done an incredible job respecting the reasoning behind the guidelines and although it was a re-education process for some initially, we are finding overall that people have become more mindful and respectful of each other.

“Reservations are strongly encouraged and preferred, but space inside is limited due to capacity restrictions. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a large outdoor space and for the most part our courtyard is open and welcome to walk-ins (weather permitting) which assists us to welcome larger groups while complying with social distancing guidelines.”

As Canberra heads towards warmer weather, the “silly season” will no doubt look very different to previous years, however, all three venues are confident the lively atmosphere of the traditional bar or pub remains, despite restrictions.

“People have been trying to find whatever reason to come out and celebrate with friends and family – even the humble post-work beer has become a ritual,” Christine says.

For Tracy, it’s about continuing to stay connected in this time of uncertainty.

“It really is important for us all to stay connected and look out for each other,” she says.

“We are lucky we can still do that here and in Canberra in general.”

Choose local to support our locals. Share your journey on social media with #CBRtogether.

Photography: Rohan Thomson