Plea to Melbourne – “stay away”

Businesses in San Remo are pleading for Melburnians to stay home.

Last week, a post by the Westernport Hotel called on people to obey the lockdown restrictions.

“Hey Melbourne, you know how much we love you, don’t you? And we’re really feeling for you right now. And while we know most of you are doing your bit, we’ve had to turn away a number of Melbournites (sic) today, and it’s the least favourite part of our job,” the post said.

“We know you love it down here. Probably for all the same reasons we love it down here. It’s bloody tops. But to be sure we’re all here on the other side of this mess, along with all our friends, loved-ones, our favourite café, pub and all the other small businesses that make up this amazing community, we are begging you – please do the right thing and stay put. Just until we get back on our feet. Don’t try to sneak in, or play dumb. And please don’t abuse our staff for simply doing their job. None of us get paid enough for that.

“So for now, stay put and we’ll have a cold one waiting for you next time you’re down. And please take care of each other.”

The post was quickly shared by other local businesses, with responses showing growing frustration with those who seem to be disregarding the travel restrictions.

Posts

Gay McCauley described the Melbourne visitors as “the selfish few who flaunt the law”, while Audra Schonewille lamented “… if ppl would just do the right thing ... we wouldn't be in lockdown ... so over the covidiots!”

“Half Ventnor holiday homes in our street full since last Thursday and Friday. Even one of the number plates say "Elwood" (not exactly discreet)!,” said one resident, with Dee Burch chiming in to say the situation was the “same in San Remo”.

“So sorry you had to post this,” said Michelle Booth.

“I know it must have taken a lot to poke that bear. Stay safe Westy Crew.”

Jen Couch congratulated the Westernport Hotel on the post.

“Well done. I am a Melbourne person who would love nothing more than to be in the house where I spend half of each week. But not going to do it. It makes me furious. We are in lock down ... again ... because people are wandering everywhere,” she said.

“People are really suffering during lockdown ... so many lives destroyed. People can't go to funerals ... you can't be with loved ones if they are dying ... kids struggling … businesses gone to the wall ... we all know this.

“As an individual you have a social responsibility to do the right thing. 

“The spread of covid to rural communities will devastate the elderly, the health care system not equipped to cope and potentially wipe out indigenous communities. Your holiday or Sunday drive can wait. To everyone who got around with blatant disregard, shame on you. You are no more important than anyone else. Stop thinking about yourselves and more for the common good.”