Staff at a Melbourne bar have been abused after being linked to a COVID-19 outbreak.
Eaglemont Cellars and Wine Bar hosted a birthday party on March 14, with the bar owner noting that “a significant number” of guests had travelled from overseas, mainly the UK, to attend the function — which was held before the mandatory two-week isolation for overseas travellers was enforced.
The owner and other staff members began exhibiting coronavirus symptoms around March 21. On March 25 they were notified that a guest had been diagnosed with COVID-19, so a number of staff got tested.
At least five staff have since tested positive. All staff had been in quarantine since first exhibiting symptoms.
The bar is located in the Banyule Council area, which has been identified as a coronvirus hotspot, with more than 72 cases.
Eaglemont Cellars has since been subjected to abuse online regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.
“We are sad and disappointed at the defamatory remarks that have come through our social media particularly when we have all been so ill,” the owner said on Facebook. “We have trusted in the Department of Health process with regards to dealing with the pandemic.
“We will continue to convalesce and would ask for some consideration during this time. We will advise of our new open date and naturally our premises have been sanitised as a precaution and in accordance with Department of Health regulations.
“Be kind, be safe, be well.”
Many patrons have come out in support of the bar.
One noted: “On March 14 it was life as usual. There were no restrictions or advice on social distancing. We had a local cricket grand final on that weekend with probably 300 people attending on the Sunday. The following week was when things escalated. They have absolutely zero reason to issue an apology.”
A nearby business added: “We wish everyone a speedy recovery. Eaglemont has a great Centre Manager in Maryanne and along with the great team at Banyule Council we are sure you guys will get all the support you need. Stay safe and let us know if we can do anything to possibly help. We are all in this together!”
