Cafes and restaurants across the Illawarra have been making the decision to close completely - or rapidly adapting their businesses - as a complete COVID-19 shut down becomes likely.
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For North Beach stalwart Diggies, it has become impossible to trade and maintain "social distance".
"Diggies and North Kiosk is a community hub, a place where for the past 15 years our locals have loved to meet, mingle, often daily, linger and experience our friendly customer service whilst taking in the most beautiful view," Stan and Morgan Crinis said on social media.
"[D]espite putting all recommended measures in place we have had difficulty preventing socialising outside our venue.
"So for the health and safety of our staff, their families, and our community, we are closing our doors at 12pm today. Stay safe, we can't wait to see you on the bright side, and we guarantee there will be a fabulous party."
While closure has become the best option for some, others have been adapting fast to strict distancing laws to keep their business alive while they still can.
On Thursday, local innovator and His Boy Elroy owner Lachlan Stevens took an order for 200 burgers and delivered them to Wollongong Private Hospital staff. He will deliver 200 more on Friday.
CEO David Crowe said the burger delivery was an effort to "support local business and boost staff morale in challenging times".
Kate McIlwain
For more than a decade, I've helped the Illawarra Mercury set the news agenda across the region. Currently I'm the paper's health reporter - covering the stories of Illawarra workers and residents in the wake of a global pandemic and at a time where our health systems are stretched to the limit.
For more than a decade, I've helped the Illawarra Mercury set the news agenda across the region. Currently I'm the paper's health reporter - covering the stories of Illawarra workers and residents in the wake of a global pandemic and at a time where our health systems are stretched to the limit.
