Kempsey business navigate challenges as NSW rolls out COVID roadmap

Sydneysiders rushed to pubs, retail stores and hairdressers, enjoying activities they haven't been able to do in months, but for Kempsey, some businesses owners think that the new rules are almost a step back.

Manager of the Great Northern Hotel in Kempsey, Josh Hadfield explained that pubs have actually gone back to max 20 person per booking, which wasn't the case on Sunday.

"We have had to turn away a couple of people due to the double vaccination rule," Mr Hadfield said.

"When they do their sign in at the door, we either check a their digital or photo copied vaccination status."

"It's definitely slowed people down a bit."

Manager of JB's Hair Salon and Beauty, Jemma Ryan, said they have had to reschedule appointments.

"We are trying as best as we can to stay on top of checking vaccinations," Ms Ryan said.

"It's been difficult for the people who have had the Astra Zeneca jab and need to wait quite a few weeks between jabs, so we've had to re book some of their appointments."

But the growing pains are necessary, as more people get vaccinated, more restrictions will be lifted, including tourism and regional travel.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said Monday's (October 11) milestone was only possible thanks to the efforts of so many people embracing the public health messages.

"Today is just a taste of the freedoms to come with the State on track to pass the 80 per cent double vaccination mark within weeks, and if we keep on going, we'll ensure lockdowns become a thing of the past," Mr Perrottet said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the changes have been welcomed from Bondi to Broken Hill.

"So many people like me are keen to get back to the pub, enjoy a meal at their local café and inject some money back into regional economies," Mr Toole said.

"It won't be long before we see the bush buzzing again and the main streets of regional towns packed with activity as businesses re-open and restrictions start to ease."

NSW Health's Public Health Order will see rules change for individuals and businesses, including Kempsey Shire Council, and will particularly impact unvaccinated adults in terms of the ways goods and services are provided across the state.

The key council services impacted by the new regulations are:

Kempsey Shire Council general manager, Craig Milburn said only a handful of Kempsey Shire Council's facilities are impacted by these changes and that Council's priority is the safe provision of services to our community.

"Under the Public Health Order, those who wish to visit the shire's libraries must be fully vaccinated, continue to check-in and staff will be checking visitors' vaccination status and ensuring they have checked-in to these premises," Mr Milburn said.

For residents who are not fully vaccinated, library branches are offering a click-and-collect service that does not require entry but does require a mask to be worn for collection.

"The shire's swimming pools in Crescent Head, Gladstone, Kempsey and South West Rocks can only admit residents who are fully vaccinated. Those entering public pools must check-in and show their vaccination status to staff upon entry."

Council's facilities that are staffed by volunteers will remain closed until proof of vaccination is no longer an entry requirement.

This includes the ReUse Shop at the Waste Management Centre and South West Rocks Visitor Information Centre.

Council is also working with the various Community Hall Committee groups, with situations varying at each location.

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