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A Wollongong pub has been fined $5000 for alleged breaches of the COVID-19 Public Health Order.
Police say that at about 11.30pm on October 2, licensing police from Wollongong Police District attended the Corrimal Street venue as part of Operation Pariac, a high-visibility regional police operation targeting licensed venues.
Officers say they saw large groups of people “congregating, hugging and dancing” with no COVID safety marshals on duty inside the venue.
Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Evan Quarmby said police would continue to work with businesses in relation to their COVID-19 safety plans and provide advice and guidance.
“The safety of the community is paramount, and we will continue to take action against those businesses that choose to ignore ministerial directions,” Supt Quarmby said.
“When we launched Operation Summer Safe last month, we made it clear to the community that during the warmer months it will not be business as usual.
“We have been through the education and engagement phase, and we will not hesitate to move into enforcement for those who leave us with no alternative.
“We have been working closely with our partner agencies and local businesses to make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to the health and safety of our community,” Supt Quarmby said.
The maximum penalty for contravening a Public Health Order is a fine of up to $11,000 and/or six months imprisonment.
The standard penalty is a fine by way of an on-the-spot Penalty Infringement Notice (PIN) – $1000 for individuals and $5000 for businesses.
