SMILING faces and getting back to normal.
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That's what Lithgow Workies manager Geoff Wheeler is most excited about since reopening the club's doors on October 11.
While trade has been slow, as expected, Mr Wheeler said patrons who were coming in have been enjoying themselves.
"In particular it's nice to see some of the older folk who have been isolated to a degree, it's nice they can come back here and have a cup of coffee or lunch and dinner with friends," he said.
"They are able to socialise with friends and interact with staff again so that's a big positive."
Mr Wheeler said since reopening, the club had been hosting live music in its Tuscan Gardens and it was something that would continue into December.
"As we get into summer we have some really good entertainment coming up and we'll be using our Tuscan Gardens, Southern Gardens, Esk Restaurant and the Showroom, so keep an eye out," he said.
"We're trying to get back as much as we can to what we're here for. We're a venue for entertainment, for people to come and relax in a safe environment."
He ensured patrons could feel safe with staff cleaning around the clock and following the club's COVID safe plan.
"Importantly the people that do come are really happy to be out and about in a very safe environment," he said.
"I've done 35 COVID safe plans for the business now. Going back this has been a work in progress, coming in and out of lockdown over two years, it's [COVID] with us and we've learnt to manage that."
Mr Wheeler said the safety of patrons was paramount to Lithgow Workies.
"We have designated staff working the door to sign people in and check their vaccination proof," he said.
"There was a mass confusion for older folk not being up with technology but our staff have worked with those patrons to help them out.
"This isn't new to us, people are adapting and understanding.
"It's a progress it'll take a combined effort from all to get through this [COVID]."
He also commended his staff for the work they have done in ensuring COVID operations run smoothly.
"It's nice to have staff back, they've been great, we're actually looking for staff at the moment," he said.
Mr Wheeler said Workies would also be accepting Dine and Discover NSW vouchers again.
"The vouchers always have a positive impact on us and we can't wait to welcome more people when regional travel opens up on November 1," he said.
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