Albany cheers to pubs and bars reopening

For some, it had been a painstaking wait. Saturday was a day to savour for many West Aussies as their favourite venues re-opened after a 10-week hiatus. Albany bars and pubs were back in action, with licensed venues allowed to sell alcohol to customers without a meal under phase three of the WA Government’s COVID-19 restrictions. The Albany Hotel opened its doors at 9am, welcoming regulars back for a beer. At Due South, families and couples enjoyed the waterfront views with a beverage, including Kirsty Hall and Ben West who jumped at the chance to see friends. Later that night, Due South was knocking back customers to stay under its patron limit. “It’s Kirsty’s birthday tomorrow so we thought we’d book a table and catch up with friends,” Mr West said. “You miss the little things like going to the pub and having a beer, and the socialising.” Mates Jordan Pinner, Josh Scobie, Jake Castlehow and Piercen Cottrill were the first group in for a drink at Six Degrees just after 11am. The Earl of Spencer had two big tables of loyal customers booked in for Saturday afternoon.