We all know that the tourism and dining industry, especially in regional areas, was impacted by the bushfires and COVID-19.
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To encourage the community to get out and about and support those industries, the NSW government has launched a Dine and Discover voucher.
NSW residents aged 18 and over can apply for four $25 vouchers, worth $100 in total.
In Goulburn, vouchers can be used in 28 businesses including the Lilac City Cinema, The Empire Hotel, The Southern Railway Hotel, The Paragon Cafe and The Park Cafe.
The Hibernian Hotel is another venue where the vouchers can be used and their licensee Patrick Burke said the initiative, which began on Monday, was beneficial to both customers and the business.
"People have got money to be spent on food, so that gives them a reason to come," Mr Burke said.
"We've had around 50 people use it so far.
"That has also allowed us to keep our staff on."
It's been a pretty tough past 12 months for the hotel but business is starting to get better.
"During the pandemic, shifts went down, but although we're still not at 100% yet, we're getting back to a little normality," Mr Burke said.
"There are still a few restrictions around that we want to be lifted."
In Bowral, vouchers can be used at places like the Bradman Museum, Shanghai Chinese Restaurant, The Grand Indian Cuisine, The Grand Indian Cuisine, Bowral Hotel and Cafe Charlotte at Burradoo.
For a full list of participating businesses in not only Goulburn, but in the Southern Tablelands and Southern Highlands, visit https://mybusiness.service.nsw.gov.au/dine-and-discover/business-finder
Apply for the vouchers on your phone or computer
Download the Service NSW app on your phone and select 'Vouchers' under the list of services. If you can't find it, try updating your app. You can also start the process by visiting the Service NSW website on your computer.
Setting up an account
The app or website will ask you for your address to confirm you are in an eligible location. From there, you can login to your Service NSW account or create one, which will allow you to redeem the vouchers as well as quickly sign in using the state's QR code system and keep a digital copy of your state licenses on file.
Verifying your identity
Once you've logged in, you will be asked for two proof of identity documents to verify your eligibility and prevent fraud. A driver's license, passport, Medicare card, birth certificate or citizenship certificate will work.
Submit your request
Once your identity has been verified, you can submit your request. You should get an email soon after that confirming your vouchers, which you can then find in your Service NSW account under 'Vouchers'.
Using your vouchers
You will have four vouchers worth $25 each; two for dining and two for entertainment. You cannot use multiple vouchers at the same time. The vouchers can be used at any time excluding public holidays. Bring your phone and scan the QR code attached to your voucher on the Service NSW app to redeem it. If you applied on your computer, make sure to update the app on your phone to make sure you can find them. All vouchers must be used before the end of June.
