Ziems Quality Meats has announced it will temporarily close its doors for three weeks while urgent repairs are carried out following damage from the major hailstorm back in February.
Owner Ryan Ziems said the extent of the damage to the roof, ceiling, and floors meant it was impossible to continue operating while the work was underway. “It’s related to storm damage from the hailstorm back in February, just a lot of damage to the roof and the ceiling and the floors and things like that,” Ryan explained.
“We won’t be able to operate with fresh meat while that work is getting done, so I’ll have to shut down for approximately three weeks.” The closure is scheduled for September, with Ryan encouraging customers to get in touch early if they need orders filled before the work begins. “If anyone wants to put any orders in for next week before we shut, get in early and do that so we can make sure we’ve got all the products for you,” he said. “If anyone’s got any orders that they will need over that time, call the shop and we can see what we can work out. We are trying to make alternative arrangements and set up somewhere as well.”
Updates on progress and reopening will be posted regularly to social media, as well as on the chalkboards outside the shop. While insurance has covered the roof and ceiling works, Ryan confirmed the floor repairs are largely out-of-pocket expenses for the business.
“The ceiling and the roof are covered by the insurance. The part of the floor was covered by insurance, but the majority of it wasn’t. So we have to pay for that,” he said. “It’s taken a little while to get things organised, but we’ve finally been able to do it and get it all done before the busy Christmas period.”
The butchery has been fortunate compared to some other local businesses, which were forced to close for months after the storm. “We’ve been pretty lucky because we’ve been able to trade in the meantime, at least. A lot of businesses have been shut, or like the bowling club, operating in different premises for the last six to eight months,” Ryan said.
“Now it’s our turn to shut for a few weeks. We hope everyone understands.” Despite the challenges, community support has been strong. “Other than that, we’ve been nice and busy. Everyone’s been supporting us well, which is very much appreciated after everyone has been through a lot of tough times,” Mr Ziems said.
“For everyone to still be supporting all the local small businesses has been appreciated by me and everyone.” Ziems Quality Meats is expected to re-open well before the Christmas rush, with customers encouraged to keep an eye on Facebook for updates.
– Liam Stuart
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