Businesses open up as 'freedom day' arrives

Despite the continual spike in COVID-19 cases statewide and the spread of Omicron strain of the novel coronavirus, the NSW Government has forged ahead with its plans to reopen the state to business that is almost 'as usual'.

Unvaccinated people in NSW are now subject to the same restrictions as those who have been fully jabbed, for the first time in three months.

QR code check-ins have been scaled back and masks are only required in high risk settings.

There is also no longer a cap on visitors in homes, hospitality venues, or on numbers at outdoor gatherings.

Southside Leagues Club Marketing Manager Brittany Beltrame said it had been a 'big adjustment' over the past few months for the business and staff to follow the government mandated COVID restrictions.

"All of our staff and patrons have been really understanding and accommodating during this difficult time as we have followed the changing rules," Miss Beltrame said.

"Everyone is really happy that we can continue operations business as usual with no restrictions on numbers as capacity limits have been scrapped.

"We will continue to take the rules that remain onboard and encourage social distancing, hand washing and mask wearing for those that would like to continue wearing them."

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Manager of Star Bowling, Mat Chettleburgh said that the relaxation of rules was hopefully one of the final steps to resuming life pre pandemic.

"It has been a really effort trying to police check ins and check vaccination status for all our patrons," Mr Chettleburgh said.

"Throughout the past few months we have had a security guard employed to check people were following the rules and peak times, and had to limit our entries and exits.

"The changes to the rules mean less stress for staff and patrons, hopefully it stays like this."

For more information on the changes to COVID-19 restrictions and what this means for you please visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/stay-safe/rules

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