Among the latest changes, perhaps the most notable was allowing one person per two square metres at Tasmanian venues. For many pubs, bars and nightclubs, this marked a significant change to the number of people they could host in their venues.

But there was a catch - patrons were still required to stay seated - no dancing allowed. Understandably there was always going to be some issues with this, despite the best intentions of COVID-safe planning.

However, Launceston's Commercial Hotel owner Gary Laskey was spot on in saying publicans are not school teachers and should not be responsible for telling patrons to remain seated at all times. It seems an unnecessary hindrance for what are already struggling hospitality establishments.

If pubs adhere to only allowing the permitted number of patrons in under the one per two square metre rule, then the logical question is what difference does it make if someone is sitting down or standing up? It seems a ludicrous rule that has publicans under the gun and at risk of being fined for patron non-compliance.

Surely Tasmania Police have better things they can be doing than telling intoxicated adults to take a seat and issuing fines to cash-strapped publicans if they fail to enforce the silly restrictions? As the night goes on it would be like restraining a toddler that has just learnt to walk.

Northern Police Commander Brett Smith is also right in saying everyone one has a civil responsibility to do everything they can to help prevent a second wave. But a level of common sense must be applied and every person who chooses to go out at the weekend has a social responsibly to adhere to the rules. Just as businesses have a responsibility to comply with minimum standards.

Should pubs allow in more people then they are safely permitted to do so, that is when punishments should be issued. But when there's 150 people in one venue, their reach can only go so far. That's when it's up to everyone to take some responsibility.