Limestone Coast businesses are still scrambling to catch up from the lifted Level 3 COVID-19 restrictions recently imposed on the region, especially those within the hospitality sector.

The region was thrown into density restrictions in the midst of school holidays after a Mount Gambier woman tested positive to COVID-19.

The restrictions were lifted after four days, however it was too late for many weekend functions.

Commodore on the Park’s Michael Kosch and Mount Gambier Golf Links’ Bill Burley have felt firsthand the effects of the “rash” restrictions.

“We lost about 200 room nights for the immediate week and had two large functions made up of 150 people for Friday and Saturday night cancel,” Mr Kosch.

“Even despite the restrictions lifting by Friday morning, there was not enough time for those events to regroup and process for the weekend ahead.”

Mr Burley said he had also had a cancellation for a large function on the Friday night.

While the immediate losses are being felt now, the pair believes the negative impacts will play out for a period into the future.

“The biggest concern for us right now is how long it is going to take to get back to trading levels that we experienced only two weeks ago,” Mr Kosch said.

“I think it is difficult to contemplate where we are going to be through December and January which is a very important trading time.

“It is difficult to refurbish, to plan ahead to employ new staff and new roles into your business.”

Mr Burley said there were ongoing concerns about future industry impacts.

“Due to the Victorian border being so close we are battling to confirm functions especially for weddings,” he said.

The impact on these businesses “are much larger” than the $3000 South Australian cash grant they will compensate for.

“We estimate our immediate cash flow or revenue loss during that period to be about $80,000,” Mr Kosch said.

“$3000 does not help you meet your meet your payroll, your creditors or your other obligations.

“It is difficult from a business sense and a community sense, affecting the whole economy.”