Paul Dimattina is one publican hit with a $10k fine, for his Lamaro’s Hotel supposedly trading past curfew, amid denials and accusations authorities are targeting critics of the State’s policies.
Victoria entered its sixth lockdown order last Thursday, requiring venues and businesses to close at 8pm.
Former Western Bulldogs AFL player Dimattina was given the fine when police arrived – hours after the curfew – to find people on the premises.
But Dimattina says he is confused, as the Hotel was not trading and those present were a few friends, having a drink and consoling him over the latest lockdown and ongoing financial turmoil.
Dimattina has been battling a rare immunological condition (myasthenia gravis) and is undergoing chemotherapy, and the stress has threatened his mental health. He has requested privacy on the matter.
The prominent hotelier, who has previously considered running for elected office, has openly criticised the Andrews government’s handling of the pandemic, particularly the lack of support for businesses during lockdowns.
In 2020 he was an advocate of the “Victoria, Let’s Be Open” campaign, which ran ads in newspapers, and in October he did an emotional interview with Sky News lamenting the situation.
Last month he reported his venue was losing around $28,000 a week, describing the environment for businesses as “financial armageddon”.
Since receiving the fine he reports receiving overwhelming support from the public, many offering to pay the fine.
Victorian Police confirmed they also fined Society restaurant, on Melbourne’s Collins Street, the same night. Similarly arriving well after curfew, after 10.30pm, they reportedly observed around 20 patrons eating and drinking inside the venue.
Officers spoke with patrons and “escorted them from the premises”.
Society is operated by Chris Lucas, who has also been a vocal critic of the Andrews government, and some are suggesting this is no coincidence.
Anyone think it’s strange that 2 restauranteurs who have been publicly critical of the Vic gov have been fined for maybe breaking rules but people that continually break the rules & are literally responsible for sending us back into lockdowns get a pat on the back? Coz I don’t
— Dane Swan (@swandane) August 9, 2021
