Koroit publican Darren Smith has the welfare of his customers at the top of his list of concerns as restrictions brought to bear by the COVID-19 crisis kick in.
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In line with a state government directive, Mr Smith and his wife Julie were forced to close the doors of their Commercial Hotel in Koroit on Monday.
The couple have ran the pub for 11 years and have built a strong local bar and bistro trade.
Mr Smith said the idea of the hotel as a social hub was still very real in Koroit.
"I think the biggest thing is taking away that social outlet that some people rely on," Mr Smith said.
"For a lot of our customers, that nightly or weekly catch up at the pub is where they get their social interaction.
"It might be talking about the footy or work or a bit of gossip, it's a pretty important part of their lives.
"This pub's 150 years old so for these customers it's a traditional part of their lives, it's what they have always done and they will miss that."
While social isolation is an issue, Mr Smith also has to also contend with the financial implications that forced temporary closure brings.
The Smiths have decided not to do takeaway meals or beverages.
"For a pub in a really small, isolated community that would be an option, but in Koroit both takeaway meals and drinks are already catered for by other businesses," Mr Smith said.
"The cost of wages and opening the doors would not be worth it.
"I totally understand the measures that have been taken.
"The only thing that was a bit frustrating was the short notice we got, we were notified on the Sunday night that 15 hours later we were to shut down.
"That left us with a bit of stock in the kitchen we were stuck with.
"It'll be a tough time for everyone, the Koroit Irish Festival usually gives us a good boost and helps us through those quieter, colder months.
"But we all have to do what is asked to help out our community, state and country."