Orange residents and businesses are now able to use the state government's $25 vouchers to encourage people to go out to eateries, cafes and experiences to help stimulate the economy.
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However, the best advice is to make sure you spend the full $25 as any money left over cannot be used again. And it doesn't go to the business either.
About 50 Orange businesses, ranging from the Orange Ex-Services' Club to cafes, fast food restaurants, the Odeon 5 Cinemas, Orange Ten Pin Bowling and the Country Food Trails tour company, have registered.
It's of no benefit to them or us if they don't spend the full $25
- Helen McBurnie, Odeon 5 cinemas
Odeon 5 Cinemas manager Helen McBurnie said people had begun using the vouchers. "I've had three this morning," she said on Thursday.
Mrs McBurnie said they encouraged people to spend the full amount. She said they had special 'two for $25' and $25 ticket/food/drink offers on some screenings to suit the voucher limit.
"It's of no benefit to them or us if they don't spend the full $25," she said.
Cheeky Barista cafe owner Rodney Soo said he had also begun taking the vouchers from customers. "We want it, we needed it," he said.
Mr Soo said he had hoped the scheme would have been operating before this week.
And he said some customers were having difficulties downloading and using the scheme.
"It's not easy to navigate. I'm worried about my seniors [customers]. I'm helping them," he said.
Mr Soo said it was a 'great idea, a great concept' to help businesses after the COVID-19 restrictions.
Under the scheme each person 18 and over gets two $25 vouchers to dine in cafes, restaurants, pubs, wineries, bars, clubs and other food service venues.
They also receive two $25 vouchers for entertainment and recreation experiences including cinemas, museums, galleries, zoos, theatres, outdoor adventures and recreational activities including bowling and mini-golf.
Details are on the Service NSW website. It says the vouchers can be used seven days a week except public holidays and expire on June 30.
"Each voucher can only be used once. If the bill is less than $25, the remaining balance is given up and cannot be used. Neither you or the business will receive the leftover amount. Any balance of funds is given up," it said.
"For example, if you spend $15 and use your $25 voucher to pay, the voucher has been used in full. The remaining $10 balance is not available [again]."
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