The Armatree Hotel, 35 kilometres north of Gilgandra, has teamed up with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) to become the state’s first vaccination hub in a pub.
Owner Ash Walker said one doctor and two nurses from the RFDS delivered first Pzifer jabs to more than 200 locals from across the district on Saturday.
“The RFDS are based in Walgett at the moment, they had a spare day and asked if they could use the pub because it is central and well known,” he said.
“We organised it all in 24 hours and people travelled huge distances to come in here and get vaccinated, and get some take away food and drinks as well.”
“It was great for the community, who are pretty isolated out here and can’t wait to be back sitting together in the public bar.”
Mr Walker said the RFDS will return in three weeks to deliver second doses.
AHA NSW CEO John Whelan said country pubs are the heart of their communities and always step up in tough times.
“The Armatree Hotel is a real community hub and this is a great initiative,” said Mr Whelan.
"Vaccines are now available and we encourage all staff and patrons to be vaccinated as soon as possible.”
On Saturday there were just three active cases of COVID in Gilgandra with the region in lockdown until at least the end of August.
Share the content
