"We wanted to do something to show support for local businesses who have shut down or have limited services, but didn't want the business to feel obliged to provide anything."
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Many miss the walk past their favourite local coffee shop, ducking in to that good little cafe on a road trip or wistfully remember sitting at their regular table for Friday night dine-in.
But people from Tamworth and beyond can now let those businesses know they care about them thanks to the 'Phantom Menu'.
Started by Tamworth's Matthew Sweeney and Derek Tink, co-founders of 'My Regional Community', their mission is to lend hospitality businesses a hand up.
While participants chose to purchase a virtual coffee, room-stay, or meal, the money from which goes to the businesses themselves, Mr Sweeney said it was also about giving them moral support and encouragement.
Tamworth's DECO Wine Bar and Restaurant has already received two vouchers and messages of support.
CH Boutique Hotel owner Jye Segboer said it was a lovely surprise that "came out of nowhere".
"It's a really exciting initiative that has come unexpectedly," he said.
"It's wonderful to show support for operations doing it tough. Although it isn't a lot of money, it is symbolic of the fact that people appreciate and care for what we do in the community."
It's a wonderful initiative that shows support for operations doing it tough. Although it isn't a lot of money, it is symbolic of the fact that people appreciate and care for what we do in the community.
- Jye Segboer
They will be starting up take-away meals on Thursday, so those staff who are ineligible for the JobKeeper can earn some income.
"We are closed at the moment, so it is fairly tough. A number of our staff aren't eligible for the JobKeeper payments, so we are hoping for the restrictions to be lifted soon and to trade normally again."
Every fortnight, the purchases are tallied and the businesses are contacted to pass on the money and good-will.
READ ALSO
"People place a phantom order and nominate their select venue and we send the funds plus a letter of support and it doesn't cost the venue anything, ever," he said.
"If we are unable to get in contact with a business after three attempts we will donate the funds to Hospo for Life - a charity that helps the hospitality industry overcome mental health issues, a service which is so important right now."
Visit the 'Phantom Menu' here.
