Byron tourism operators ‘on their knees’ until restrictions ease

Byron Shire Mayor Simon Richardson says he believes Byron’s tourism sector will “bounce back” eventually, but it will be a difficult road back for business owners relying on visitors to stay afloat. He told Sky News many businesses would be unlikely to reopen under current restrictions as it was not a viable option given a maximum of 10 people were allowed in venues at any one time. “I think until those things can change, we will only be on half-mode,” he said. Mr Richardson said Byron’s occupancy rate around the Easter break was normally from 80 per cent to 95 per cent, but was less than five per cent this year, with about 90 per cent of businesses closed. “Peak holiday times to be closed is really tragic for those who were banking on it, literally, to help get through the quieter times,” he said. “We were perhaps on the deck and now we’re on our knees and I think we’ll get back on our feet really quickly.” Image: News Corp Australia

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