President of the Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), Jaime Savory, along with local hospitality traders, thinks it would be a great initiative to expand outdoor dining in Bairnsdale.
“This industry needs our support more than ever and I think collaboratively we should be able to work with local government to fund fencing and umbrellas around Bairnsdale eateries,” Ms Savory said.
“We are coming into some beautiful weather and with COVID-19 restrictions expected to be easing in regional Victoria in the coming weeks it would be great to prepare our town for recovery and get as many seats outdoors to accommodate as many people as possible within, of course, government guidelines around social distancing.”
BCCI has had initial conversations with East Gippsland Shire Council around how they can collaboratively support the local hospitality industry and get the economy back up and running in Bairnsdale and surrounding towns.
“The council has been proactive and positive and effectively we want to go back to them with a ‘wish- list’ to support this sector and our region,” Ms Savory said.
“The private sector has been hit hard with regards to loss of turnover and income and believes it’s time local government lent a helping hand to this initiative.
“BCCI wants the community to be aware, more than ever, to support our local businesses where possible.
“This initiative is the start of many that could happen in our local area. It won’t be the answer to all our economic issues but it is a small gesture that can brighten our town and support these businesses to get back up and running.”

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Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry is calling for funding to help support hospitality businesses with outdoor dining amid the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.