NEW restrictions on attendance numbers at weddings, funerals and religious services are set to be implemented in Wagga as NSW enters high alert off the back of a surge of coronavirus infections.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Singing, dancing, and "mingling" will be banned at weddings starting from next Friday, according to Premier Gladys Berejiklian, with caps of 150 people per service.
Marriage celebrant Lauren Hinston said the new restrictions were tough, but not nearly as tough as the early days of lockdown when only five people were allowed per wedding.
Mrs Hinston said about 75 per cent of her clients postponed their weddings, but that some couples were determined to make it work - whether by livestreaming, videography, or a second wedding down the track.
"During the really strict five people days, some people had really beautiful ceremonies because their priority was getting married and professing their love for each other in a meaningful way," Mrs Hinston said.
"When people reflect on their wedding, they think about what memories they want to have."
READ MORE:
Funerals and religious services are limited to 100 people per service next week, which Alan Harris McDonald manager Josh Paul said was a sensible call given the rapidly evolving situation in Victoria and NSW.
"I think it's a responsible decision that's been made, and it still allows families to be able to hold a service or celebration of their loved one's life while still making sure the health and safety of the community is paramount," Mr Paul said.
"We really don't want to go back to those old restrictions, which were so difficult for families at the time. If we can obey these new restrictions and show everyone's doing the right thing, we can get out of this together."
As of yesterday pubs and hotels became subject to strict new rules, including a 300-person cap on venues and a 10-person cap on group bookings.
Publicans must also appoint a "safe hygiene marshall" who will oversee the cleaning, hygiene, and social distancing measures by staff and pub-goers.
On top of that, publican Sean O'Hara has installed laser temperature sensors at the Farmers Home Hotel, the Turvey Tavern, and the Palm and Pawn Tavern for an extra layer of safety.
Mr O'Hara said the new restrictions were "not ideal", but that the situation was still better than a few months ago when all the pubs were closed.
Mr O'Hara said his pubs could not have held on for much longer under total lockdown, and that Wagga publicans were keen to make sure it did not happen again.
"The alternative is being shut again, which is not ideal for any business after being shut for 70 days," Mr O'Hara said.
"We can't afford to close again, so we'll work with the new laws and new restrictions."
All patrons must sign their name and contact number when entering a pub or hotel.
The number of people who can meet up for outdoor gatherings, group exercise classes, or house visits will be reduced to 20 people starting from next week.