Due South patrons lap up easing of Good Friday liquor laws, no longer forced to buy a meal to get a drink

Albany punters keen to start their long weekend are relishing in the relinquishment of Good Friday liquor restrictions, for the first time being able to order a pint without a meal to go with it. The State Government introduced the reforms last year and included extended trading hours on Good Friday, Christmas Day and Anzac Day to allow venues to open 10am to midnight, rather than noon to 10pm. This year is the first Good Friday the law has been in effect. “They should have done it 50 years ago,” Due South patron Ray Martin said.. “It’s a great thing.” Popular waterfront pub Due South took the opportunity given by the public holiday and opened their doors at 11am. “Yes, we are open on Good Friday! Yes, you can now have a drink without a meal! We don’t charge surcharge,” the venue posted to Facebook. Perth resident Mantie Stuart, who was visiting Albany for the Easter weekend, said it was much easier to not have to order food with every beverage. “I think it’s so much better that you can just come for a drink,” she said. “We just also happened to get hungry while we were drinking but it’s nice not to have to order them together. “A drink is a great way to start the weekend, and it is Friday after all.” Minister for Racing and Gaming Paul Papalia said the change was result of “extensive consultation” with the industry. “The aim of these reforms is to modernise and simplify liquor laws to be more cost-effective, relevant and efficient so that WA’s hospitality scene continues to grow and thrive,” he said. “The changes will also make it cheaper and easier for liquor, hospitality and tourism operators to do business.”