Bourke Community rallies in COVID crisis

Bourke’s main street deserted on the first day of the Bourke lockdown – 12 August 2021. Photo TWH

The Bourke community is rallying to support local businesses, and each other, despite anxiety about the worsening COVID crisis.

Khan’s IGA closed its doors on Tuesday for deep cleaning after a positive case visited the store. Morrall’s Bakery and Randall’s Newsagency closed on Wednesday to protect staff and while staff underwent testing as a precaution.

Many Bourke businesses have adopted new strategies to continue servicing their customers while abiding by the strict public health measures.

While they may have to temporarily close their doors, they are determined to continue servicing the community safely.

In return, they are urging people to ‘support local’.

Nancy Randall from Randall’s Newsagency said everyone was on high alert in the community but while she could do so safely, she would continue to trade.

“We are all nervous, not just for ourselves but also for our customers and staff,” Nancy said.

One of our three staff members is choosing to stay home due to a pre-existing health condition and any staff who feel unsafe are allowed to stay home.

“We are taking every precaution, with a table across the doorway, stopping people before they enter, they must sign in or use the QR code and we try and work out what they want first.

And we are limiting how many people can come in; no children can come in on their own, and we would prefer people not to bring children into town.

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