Bartenders have called last drinks across the country.
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Tamworth customers snuck in for a final drink on Monday as the city's pub scene prepared to enact a national ban on sit-down custom.
The strict restrictions, which started at midday and could last as long as six months, are designed to halt the deadly coronavirus pandemic.
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One restaurant manager said it's almost like the local food sector will go into hibernation until the crisis ends.
"There is going to be venues that will have to close," said Sean Thompson, manager of Hopscotch Restaurant and Bar.
"I'm hoping the community spirit's strong enough to have them open back up again when this is all over."
His restaurant and coffee shop might have been the only place in Tamworth to get a beer Monday, with seven local pubs contacted by the Leader jumping the gun on the ban and staying closed.
But at Hopscotch it was a relatively busy morning, with over 60 patrons taking the opportunity have what could be their last sit-down meal for months.
Judith Rocks was one of those who decided she'd have a last brunch. Her friend Maureen Donnelly thought the idea was mad, but joined anyway.
"I said to her why are you doing this, it's crazy - most people are staying at home!" said Ms Donnelly.
"(Judith) said we can stay at home as long as we like after this, but we're going out today!"
Ms Rocks said she wasn't scared of the COVID-19 epidemic, but was frustrated travel restrictions forced her to cancel an appointment at a Sydney hospital.
The ban will have a major affect on the local food sector, with Tamworth Hotel owner Luke Prout describing the situation as "unprecedented and heartbreaking".
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The hotel will continue to cook take-away meals and operate a bottleshop, but are on a skeleton staff and have laid off all their casuals. They are investigating ways to support former staff with assistance like free accommodation.
Mr Prout said he understands the need for the ban but is "blown away" government has not also closed schools and other "non essential services".
"We need to flatten that curve, and public transport, open shopping centres and schools is not going to do this," he said.
Hopscotch Manager Sean Thompson said the ban is the biggest challenge the establishment has ever faced. He said he hopes loyal customers will get them through.
"It's getting to that point where your only takeaway is coming through a drive through. You're always going to be looking for a quality coffee.
"We are hoping that that will keep us afloat and also the fact that the community is there for us."
They have been forced to reduce hours for staff but the restaurant will aim not to actually lay off staff.
Patrons are no longer allowed to sit down at cafes, cinemas, restaurants or bars anywhere in Australia, with all non-essential gatherings of any sort banned by Prime Minister Scott Morrison an announcement on Sunday night. He said it could be six months for things to return to normal.
Gyms, clubs, sporting and religious institutions have also been ordered to close their doors to help stem the spread of COVID-19.
Australians are still permitted to buy takeaway food and coffee, and can buy from bottleshops.