Manager Tim Smithyman said a number of chefs were choosing other jobs because they were concerned about the loss of income in the event of a lockdown.

Mr Smithyman said the club had been seeking a replacement head chef for the past two months.

"We've tried SEEK and ads in newspapers as far as Horsham and Ballarat - with minimal response," he said.

Mr Smithyman said he believed a number of city eateries were finding it difficult to attract staff.

It comes after The Standard revealed earlier this month seven cafes, bakeries and restaurants in Port Fairy were displaying 'staff wanted' signs.

"Everyone is in the same boat," Mr Smithyman said.

He said it was disappointing to have to shut the bistro down.

He said he was in the process of evaluating a number of applications and hoped to be able to offer meals again in a month to six weeks.

"We will utilise this time to make some changes," he said.

Mr Smithyman said a number of functions had to be rescheduled, while one was cancelled.

The club is offering a trivia and pizza session on Sundays. Mr Smithyman said about 50 people attended the first session last week.

"We will hold that for the next month or two and if it's popular we will keep doing it," he said.

A number of industries have reported difficulties finding qualified staff in the wake of the pandemic.

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