Staging Post Café and Conference Centre​ changes

Staging Post Caf and Conference Centre changes

UPDATE: Wednesday 13 May 2020

STAGING POST CAFE AND FUNCTION ROOMS WILL REOPEN

The Staging Post Caf and function rooms at the Lockyer Valley Conference Centre will reopen at a future date.

Since announcing the temporary closure last week, Lockyer Valley Deputy Mayor, Cr Jason Cook stated Council will consider options for the operation and management of the Caf and function rooms, and this work has already commenced.

"This will be following a review of the Cafe's operating model, and at a time when local cafes have had ample time to recover from COVID-19 restrictions.

"Council has consulted with impacted staff, and unions, to ensure the best possible outcome for those involved.

"All staff have been, and will continue to be treated with respect while due process is followed.

"We understand the Caf and function rooms hold fond memories and are an important meeting place for residents and visitors of the Lockyer Valley. We will keep the community informed on plans to reopen, once the review is finalised," Cr Cook said.

While the Gatton library, Lockyer Valley Art Gallery and Queensland Transport Museum are currently closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, these facilities will reopen when it is safe to do so and in line with Federal and State government directives.

-----

Council to temporarily discontinue operating Cafe and Conference Centre

DATE: Friday 8 May 2020

Lockyer Valley Regional Council has made the difficult decision to cease operating the Staging Post Caf and Lockyer Valley Conference Centre until further notice.

In line with the Federal Government restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Council closed both the Staging Post Caf and Lockyer Valley Conference Centre in late March.

Since that time, staff involved in these operations have been redeployed to other sections of Council.

Lockyer Valley Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said during that time the hospitality industry throughout the Lockyer Valley has taken a considerable hit to their business operations.

The hospitality industry has been undoubtedly one of the hardest hit sectors due to the COVID-19 restrictions and for Council to re-open once restrictions are lifted and be in direct competition with so many businesses who are trying to recoup losses, would be remiss of us as an organisation.

So many local hospitality businesses will need the time and support of our region's residents and visitors to re-establish and I encourage all residents, where possible, to support local during this time.

It doesn't have to be a meal - even a coffee will be appreciated and, importantly, it will help local business and the region's economy to get back on track, Mayor Milligan said.

While acknowledging the facility had faced ongoing challenges to being financially viable, including significantly higher wage costs than other hospitality businesses, Mayor Milligan said the centre had provided a key function and meeting venue for the region including hosting numerous weddings, conferences and school formals.

A future options analysis report will be presented to Council at a later date, which will allow Council to consider the most appropriate options for the ongoing use and management of these facilities, Mayor Milligan said.

For further information, contact Council on 1300 005 872.