Police are warning Albury pub-goers who are keen for a drink on Friday after more than seven weeks of lockdown, their local watering hole will look very different.
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Murray River Police District commander Superintendent Paul Smith said the easing of restrictions does not allow bars or gaming areas to operate and hotels will simply operate as restaurants.
Albury eateries can open their doors tomorrow as NSW restrictions ease, but police are warning the community they will still be out in force.
"We are not through the pandemic yet," Superintendent Smith said.
"We have seen some really good results and great assistance from the public in keeping us all safe however we need to continue.
"Our approach, like it has been right through, will be measured, looking at compliance through education for community safety.
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"The main component is they are operating as a restaurant so alcohol can only be served with food and there won't be any gaming areas open.
"The message from police and government is that this is not a green light to go back to normal."
Superintendent Smith said the number of social restriction breaches had reduced in April and May.
"As restrictions ease, there are obviously less rules that can be broken but police will be out there working with the community.
"There is a focus on those who are blatantly breaching restrictions or are constantly breaching restrictions," he said.
"We certainly don't want the case where we have to reinforce restrictions we are now being able to ease.
"Obey by the health guidelines and social distancing, we certainly don't want to take step back."
Restrictions will somewhat come into line with those in Victoria, with police acknowledging it has been confusing for Border towns.
"All along the Murray River Police District towns are split in half by the Murray River, at least we now we are going to have very similar restrictions with Victoria," Superintendent Smith said.
"But I would urge anyone who is crossing over to check on the neighbouring jurisdictions before travelling.
"We accept we are one community and we will get through it together."
Member for Albury Justin Clancy echoed Superintendent Smith's message and encouraged the community to obey restrictions.
"I just want to again thank those workers on the front line, as well as those in essential jobs such as teachers and supermarket workers," he said.
"No one wants to go backwards, keep maintain social distance, hygiene and get tested if you are unwell.
"Now is not the time to relax.
"It has been a great effort by our community and that is what has been able to get us to ease these restrictions."
