THE local pub is the heartbeat of many country towns and the community of Armatree near Gilgandra in the state's west is no different.
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Despite being impacted by the state's ongoing COVID-19 lockdown, the Armatree Hotel once again became a hub for the community, but of a completely different kind.
Armatree Hotel owner Ash Walker teamed up with one doctor and two Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS) nurses to help deliver 200 locals with their first dose of the Pzifer vaccine.
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"The RFDS are based in Walgett at the moment, they had a spare day and asked if they could use the pub because it is central and well known," Mr Walker said.
"We organised it all in 24 hours and people travelled huge distances to come in here and get vaccinated, and get some take away food and drinks as well.
"It was great for the community, who are pretty isolated out here and can't wait to be back sitting together in the public bar."
Australian Hotels Association NSW chief executive officer John Whelan said the Armatree Hotel was just one of many pubs across the state stepping up to support bush communities during the pandemic.
"The Armatree Hotel is a real community hub and this is a great initiative," Mr Whelan said.
"Vaccines are now available and we encourage all staff and patrons to be vaccinated as soon as possible."
The RFDS will return to the Armatree Hotel in three weeks to deliver locals with their second dose of the vaccine.