Gold Coast soccer fans are in for a treat this weekend after the State Government announced pubs and clubs will be allowed to open their doors early for Saturday’s massive Socceroos showdown.
With Australia set to take on Egypt in a high-stakes World Cup elimination clash at 4am, the football faithful were originally facing the prospect of watching the do-or-die match from their couches.
However, a relaxation to the rules by the State Government means diehard supporters can now swap their living rooms for the atmosphere of their local watering hole.
Under a new trial by the Crisafulli Government, licensed venues across Queensland will be allowed to throw open their doors between 3am and 7am on Saturday, July 4.
The temporary relaxation of standard trading hours aims to create a lively, shared community space for fans to unite and wave the green and gold.
According to Damien Steele from the Queensland Hotels Association, the special trading extension means eager punters will officially “be able to get a beer with your brekky wrap” as they cheer on the national team.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said that the government wanted to take a practical approach to support both national sporting pride and local businesses.
“There’s nothing like coming together with a crowd to cheer on the Socceroos, and we want Queenslanders to be part of that atmosphere,” Minister Frecklington said.
She emphasised that the targeted measure is designed to “maximize community excitement while maintaining a strict focus on public safety and the responsible service of alcohol”.
To legally trade during the dawn broadcast, venues must prove their primary purpose for opening is to televise the game, and all standard liquor licensing laws will remain strictly enforced.
Gold Coast venues wishing to cash in on the football fever will be required to submit a formal application to the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation for approval by 2pm Thursday via the website.
