A Darwin pub is $5495 the poorer for allegedly not following new restrictions on COVID-19 on the weekend.
Police yesterday issued an infringement notice to Lola's Pergola in Cullen's Bay for failing to abide by the Chief Health Officer (CHO) Directions issued under section 56 of the Public and Environmental Health Act 2011.
On Friday, Police and Environmental Health Officers jointly issued a formal caution to the licensed venue for:
- Failing to serve separate meals to individuals consuming liquor.
- Patrons not being seated while consuming alcohol.
- Social distancing not being adhered to within the premises.
On Friday, Police and EHO conducted compliance activities at Lola's Pergola when they were advised by concerned patrons alcohol was being served without meals being consumed.
It is only from noon on June 5 the restrictions on food being supplied to drinking customes will be lifted.
Observations of the venue confirmed this was clearly occurring against the CHO directions.
The owner was provided with advice and education in regards to the expectations of the CHO.
On Saturday, NT Police and EHO attended the licensed venue and again cautioned the establishment requesting adherence to directions provided.
On Sunday, NT Police issued an infringement notice to the owner for failing to abide by CHO directions
The fine is $5495.
NT Police and Environmental Health Officers continue to undertake compliance activities.
Acting Commander Gill said "This is a timely reminder that the onus is licenced premises and individuals to adhere to Stage 2 restrictions of the Territory's Roadmap to our new normal".
A total of 11,581 compliance checks have now been completed and 57 fines issued.
Chris McLennan
ACM national rural property writer based in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria. Career journalist. Multi award winner.
ACM national rural property writer based in Bacchus Marsh, Victoria. Career journalist. Multi award winner.
