Michaela Meade
Craigieburn Central business owners are calling out for the community to return to the centre.
The centre and multiple retailers have been listed as exposure sites during the lastest COVID-19 outbreak.
The Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse at the centre had to be closed twice over the course of a week due to positive cases visiting the shopping centre and the cafe.
Owner Todd Agius said his business had been negatively impacted.
“The messaging has basically been not to come [to the centre],” he said.
“Even though we’re open and trading, and doing the right things, the messaging has been the same.
“It’s been pretty damaging.”
Mr Agius said although he would not normally, he posted to social media to ask his community for help.
“The centre’s taken every precaution,” he said.
“Don’t be discouraged from coming down, having a coffee and a chat.
“I’m trying to get a bit of positivity out there.
“Regular customers are still coming in… [but] I want to make it worthwhile [for everyone] to come.”
Walker’s Doughnuts co-owner Sami Maher said the shopping centre had been “substantially quieter” since it was listed as an exposure site
He said he has seen firsthand the impact of the lockdown on businesses deemed “non-essential”.
“My heart goes out to those businesses who can’t operate at all,” he said.
“Everyone’s doing it tough.
“We want all businesses to be back open, for the sake of all businesses.”
When it comes to reopening the entire centre, Sami said the public should have “confidence” in the venue, and “welcome” the QR code check-in process.
“Checking in with QR codes is mandatory… finally, which is a good thing,” he said.
“Don’t get upset with us when we ask you to do the QR check-in.
“We’re trying to do our bit for the suburb, the centre, and the wider community.
“You’re saving the business by QR-ing.”
