
Three popular venues in Perth’s northern coastal suburbs have scrapped plans to open for this Saturday’s early morning Socceroos game and other marquee World Cup fixtures due to “impractical” obligations imposed by liquor licensing regulators.
D’Arcy Hospitality Group, which owns The Jarrah and The Harbour Bar, both in Hillarys, and the Iluka Pub, had planned to open outside normal hours for upcoming England, Australia and Scotland games under temporary extended trading hours granted by the Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor.
“Our intention was to broadcast these games for our patrons, and we successfully obtained the necessary approvals from the Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor,” the group said in a statement on social media on Wednesday night.
“However, the conditions attached to these approvals make it commercially unviable for our venues to operate for these early morning fixtures.
“Some of the requirements include the engagement of multiple licensed security personnel throughout the night, the presence of approved managers, and the provision of food service, which in turn requires a full kitchen team to be on duty. Unfortunately, these obligations make opening for the pre-finals matches impractical.”
The group apologised for “any disappointment or inconvenience” to fans. It said if England, Australia or Scotland progress to the round of 16, quarter finals, semi finals or final in the tournament “we will review the situation and provide further announcements where possible.”
Under the temporary rules granted earlier this month, licensed venues normally required to shut their doors and stop serving alcohol overnight can now apply to stay open when World Cup games are on.
At least 21 already have approval, with permission to stay open until 30 minutes after the final whistle of each game.
Games will also be shown live on the big screen at Northbridge Piazza, with fan zone activities during Socceroos matches.
The Department of Racing Gaming and Liquor has been contacted for comment.
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