The coronavirus pandemic seems to have made the phrase ‘you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone’ ring truer than ever since March, causing unprecedented health, social, and economic crisis.

As of last Wednesday, 28 October the easing of strict restrictions saw the city, its shops and its people resumed to a more ‘COVID-normal’ pace.

According to Victorian Prime Minister Daniel Andrews, the first day of lifted restrictions saw some 180,000 Melburnians return to work. The majority being staff from 5,800 cafes and restaurants and 800 pubs.

Customers and patrons also rushed to enjoy what they had been missing for so long. Thousands of expatriates have already enjoyed their coffee or food with their friends at their well-known hangouts, observing health and hygiene measures.

The Eaton Mall in Oakleigh had an air of excitement, but for months shopkeepers initially struggled to keep the operation running.

As if the accumulated pressure was not enough, preparations for the grand re-openings had to be done in less than 48 hours.

SHOPKEEPERS RELIEVED

The late Greek businessman Thanasis Spanos’, favourite way to approach life was “with power”. With that, he encouraged those he saw feeling down from life’s challenges.

That is why the Vanilla Lounge shared a fitting tribute, a flower arrangement adorning the word ‘power’, but also to remind us of such timely advice during this critical juncture.

His daughter, Tia Spanos-Tsonis spoke to Neos Kosmos about business and general wellbeing difficulties of the past months.

“There was not a person who was not affected financially and psychologically,” she said.

Photo: Neos Kosmos

The 100 staff at Vanilla was greatly reduced, due to the limited operation of take away and delivery. Many former employees were even forced to leave Australia as they had no government support.

A new day dawned on that Wednesday. The problems did not magically disappear but the mood had clearly improved.

Ms Spanos-Tsonis noted a “madness” prevailed until the preparations for the opening were completed, but were ready to go once the clock struck midnight.

There is a sense of “relief”, Ms Spanos-Tsonis said, but noted that there are still steps to be taken to address the virus, but everyone seems to have understood that the rules must be followed.

Effie Katsaki (C) with the employees of Melissa Photo: Neos Kosmos

Owner of Melissa Effie Katsakis told Neos Kosmos that people felt the lockdown lasted much longer.

“You feel like you are living in Oakleigh again, with people talking and laughing,” Ms Katsakis said.

The first customers knocked on the door early Wednesday morning, as the final preparations for the opening were completed.
They were the same ones who during the lockdown did not leave when they went to go get a coffee.

Photo: Neos Kosmos

Owner of Kentro and president of the Oakleigh Village Traders Association Anna Sfrantzis, said the lockdown period was “very difficult”.

The return of customer however, was like an “antidote”.

She stressed the next stage is important, as the increase of customer limitations needs to be followed to avoid a new outbreak of coronavirus.

Ioakim Apostolidis, with his daughter Tammy and two Annas Photo: Neos Kosmos

Health store Botaniko continued to operate during the pandemic said owner Ioakim Apostolidis, however many people could not visit Oakleigh due to the 5km radius and many nearby avoided leaving their homes due health concerns.

Since Wednesday, Mr Apostolidis pointed out, there was “joy”, as everyone felt “freer”.

“They feel the need to visit Oakleigh,” he said.

On the left, Thomas Deliopoulos out front Kalimera Photo: Neos Kosmos

Owner of Kalimera Thomas Deliopoulos said that during the lockdown “we had lost ourselves”.

Of his 25 staff, only 4 worked for take away and delivery.

He explained that now the situation is improving, there are vacancies for anyone who wants to work and those interested can contact the store management.

Photo: Neos Kosmos

At the Greek Bakery, owner Despina Genimaki referred to 28 October as a wonderful day for the people and the shopkeepers.

“There is clearly a better mindset,” she said.

Ms Genimaki thanked the people who supported her business.

“It was the so beautiful, just so amazing,” she said, talking of those who came by even for a biscuit and a chat.

*Translated by Marianna Alepidis