New South Wales government expressed concerned over the transmission of COVID 19 and possibly the Omicron variant in larger social venues such as pubs, clubs, and party settings.
A trivia night at a Sydney pub sparked a new cluster of cases, with at least 44 patrons testing positive to the virus after attending the popular Oxford Tavern in Petersham on 30 November.
Authorities are also concerned about 140 passengers who embarked on a Sydney Harbour cruise on Friday night which has so far resulted in five cases of the Omicron variant.
New South Wales has recorded its highest caseload since lockdown lifted, with health authorities raising concern about increased transmission occurring in larger social venues such as pubs and clubs.
Some 516 infections were detected from more than 90,000 tests on Thursday, but no new virus related deaths were reported.
It is the highest daily tally recorded in NSW since 9 October, two days before lockdown lifted. Among the cases is a traveller whose diagnosis sparked a short lived lockdown of a Bondi hostel.
Police on Thursday afternoon cordoned off the Noah' s Bondi Backpackers as NSW Health locked it down and began testing all residents. A spokesperson for the Sydney Local Health District on Thursday night confirmed one case had been detected.
"The case is now isolating. At this time, Omicron is not suspected," they said.
"The transmission in these types of settings is contributing to the increase in cases in NSW and we urge people not to attend social functions if they have any symptoms, even if mild," it said.
The number of people diagnosed with the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in NSW has now surpassed 40.
NSW Health has also issued an alert for Woody's Surf Shack Night Club in Byron Bay over several days, where thousands of teenagers are celebrating schoolies.
As Christmas approaches, and more people gather with families, friends and colleagues to celebrate, it is particularly important to be vigilant.
Heath officials recommend that gatherings should be held outdoors wherever possible, she said, and people with even mild symptoms should not attend or have visitors.
Premier Dominic Perrottet is urging "confidence, hope and optimism" ahead of the end of most restrictions next week.
As previously announced, from 15 December, density limits will be scrapped, QR check-ins will only be required at high-risk venues, and masks will only have to be worn on public transport, at airports and on planes.
The government has also announced a boost to rebate relief available to eligible sole traders, not-for-profit organisations and small businesses across the state.
They will be able to access up to $2,000 - up from $1,500 - to offset some NSW and local government fees, including food and liquor licences, event fees and council rates.