Outdoor eating options enhanced

Published on 20 July 2021

Hospitality businesses across the Gannawarra are benefiting from the installation of extra outdoor seating areas thanks to State Government-funded works undertaken by Gannawarra Shire Council.

As part of the State Government’s efforts to support the hospitality sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, Council received $250,000 from the Local Councils Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package to use to assist with developing outdoor eating spaces.

“Council is pleased to have used this funding to create or enhance outdoor eating areas outside 16 hospitality businesses throughout the Gannawarra,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“These spaces have created a point of difference for businesses located near each of these spaces and will provide a location to take advantage of the Gannawarra’s great weather during our warmer months.”

As part of the project, permanent dining settings were replaced or installed outside businesses at Cohuna, Kerang, Koondrook, Leitchville, Murrabit, Mystic Park and Quambatook, with many of these locations featuring café barriers promoting local businesses or the Gannawarra.

“Council was very proactive with the outdoor seating project, with improvements completed just in time for the Christmas tourism season, which was invaluable due to the limited indoor seating requirements,” Leitchville Hotel owner, Ryan O’Mahony said.

“We can’t thank the team at Gannawarra Shire Council enough. Not only did this project keep the hotel to as close to normal trading in a COVID-restricted environment but will continue to be an asset to our business and the shire for many years to come.”

Hospitality businesses that use relocatable outdoor furniture were also supported thanks to the purchase of outdoor umbrellas or the installation of umbrella sockets.

“The recent improvements to our outdoor dining space have made it look more vibrant, inviting and improves the overall look of the streetscape,” Sh’marna’s Place owner, Sh’marna Holloway said.

“These improvements mean that our customers have the opportunity to be seated outside with family, friends and pets to enjoy the good weather, meals and friendships.”