Calls for people to back off as Sydney Thai restaurant suffers COVID humiliation

One Sydney family-owned restaurant has had its reputation tarnished by false claims that they didn't take appropriate COVID-19 response measures.

Following the anger aimed at Thai Rock restaurant, the Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance called on Australians to show support for their local businesses rather than spreading false information. 

Despite closely following NSW Health regulations, Thai Rock restaurant located in Wetherill Park, has been associated with a COVID-19 cluster.

The association alone was enough to spark a tirade of abuse.

However, Thai Rock claims it shut its doors the moment they were informed an employee tested positive. Every staff member was tested and the owners, all the employees, and all the people they came into contact with have self-isolated.

During the time that they were operating, Thai Rock recorded all their guests’ information in accordance with NSW requirements and when they became aware of their employee’s positive COVID-19 result, were able to contact all of their clients. 

The owners of Thai Rock say they have spoken with NSW Health three to four times daily, to be certain they were doing what they can to stop the spread.

The abuse has extended beyond the restaurant, with the restaurant owner’s brother, Eric Lim, publicly criticised for going to work at the family’s hardware store even though he hasn’t been to Thai Rock for over a month and didn’t come into contact with anyone suspected of having COVID-19. 

Emilie Dye, ATA Director Policy, expressed her disapproval, “The owners and employees of Thai Rock have gone above and beyond to stop the spread of COVID-19, and yet, many thoughtlessly blame them for the spread of a virus we all know to be highly contagious.” 

Ms Dye has reminded the public, that every restaurant owner fears their staff could contract COVID and understand that even the most successful of restaurants could be ruined by an outbreak. This puts even more pressure on them, highlighted by the humiliation suffered by Thai Rock.

“COVID-19 has disrupted everyone’s life and we all want a scapegoat. But now is not the time to cast blame, especially on family-owned businesses. Don’t bankrupt the hands that feed us,” Dye said. 

“Essential service workers have risked exposure to make sure our Uber Eats arrive hot and on time. They deserve a thank you!”