A ‘united front’ (from left) Stephan Knoll, Martin McCarthy, Amanda Longworth, Anne Moroney, James March, Jon Durdin, Cathy Wills, Bill O'Brien and Richard Dodson. PHOTO: Supplied
BAROSSA’S key government and industry stakeholders are working together to address the imminent and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 virus.
On Friday, representatives from Barossa, and Light Regional councils, Tourism Barossa, Barossa Grape and Wine Association and Regional Development Australia Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains, convened with Member for Schubert Stephan Knoll to discuss the impacts of coronavirus on the region, as well as the region’s short- and long-term responses.
Minister Knoll said all stakeholders would continue to work in tandem as the situation unfolds in coming weeks and months, paying heed to all recommendations from health officials.
“We are working together in a united way to help our community during this difficult time,” he said.
“We are so fortunate in the Barossa to have such a resilient community which has weathered many challenges in the past, and which has many ready and willing individuals ready to help and support those who need it.”
Minister Knoll said the community should also be reassured that no imminent lockdown was planned for South Australia.
“I want to reassure our community that we are not going to run out of food and that we are doing everything in our power to ensure that food supply chains are kept open and efficient, and we stand ready to do more if and when it is required,” he said.
Local response to the coronavirus crisis had been swift, with a number of businesses adapting their service delivery to ensure they could still operate during this period.
“There are a number of restaurants and cafes offering home delivery or take away, and we are also seeing other businesses such as hardware supplies offering similar options,” Minister Knoll said.
“It’s really important that locals support locals during this time so where possible, we would encourage the community to continue supporting local businesses – and we have so many great ones here in the Barossa.
“For businesses, I encourage you to get in touch with your local association, council or RDA to seek advice – they are all ready to help.”
