According to police, officers from Lake Illawarra Police District were conducting compliance checks on Friday and spoke with the female licensee at the Grand Hotel at Kiama about 6pm.

Police allege she was unable to produce a completed COVID-Safe plan, but showed police blank forms which had been provided by officers during an inspection the previous week.

During a subsequent walk-through, police claim they observed patrons standing around and various areas were not appropriately set up to ensure physical distancing.

Following further inquiries, the 58-year-old woman was issued a $1000 Penalty Infringement Notice on Monday, before being formally warned to ensure the business complies with COVID restrictions.

Venue management declined to comment when contacted by the Mercury.

Police continue to appeal to the community to report suspected breaches of any ministerial direction or behaviour which may impact on the health and safety of the community.

Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.