By Abbey Cannan
Noosa’s tourism operators have once again been rocked by a snap lock down during the school holidays.
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart has urged the community to stay calm and follow the latest COVID restrictions in place for Noosa and the south-east.
“Our community has done a tremendous job during COVID and this latest three day lockdown is another wake up call for all of us,” she said.
“It’s important we remain cautious and follow the Queensland Health directives.
“This means only leave home for four reasons which are available on the Queensland Health website and if you do need to leave home then please wear a mask and adhere to all other Covid safe measures.”
Cr Stewart acknowledged the three-day lockdown during school holidays was potentially the worst-case scenario for the local tourist industry.
“These are uncertain times for all of us and our tourism businesses are the first to bear the brunt of this evolving COVID situation, however we need to unite and support each other and that includes buying local where we can,” she said.
Cr Stewart called on the State and Federal Governments to provide additional support to all businesses in the wake of the latest lockdown.
“Our operators are under pressure both financially and emotionally and the lockdown will again shatter the confidence of many business owners,” Cr Stewart said.
“I understand the reasons for the decisive action from the Premier and it’s important we take this seriously.
“If you feel unwell or have any symptoms, please get tested.
“Testing is absolutely essential to ensure that all positive cases are captured as early as possible. So please check the list of exposure sites and follow Qld Health directions.”
Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson said Tourism Noosa has significantly reduced its in market activity and are watching to see how COVID pans out.
She said the recent Sydney lock down, just prior to the school holidays and winter holiday season, caused some issues for our accommodation providers.
“The issue for our industry, is that we just don’t know what is going to happen. It is a day to day watch this space scenario and very much limits any sort of preparation,” Ms Anderson said.
The lockdown begins 6pm Tuesday and continues until 6pm Friday 2 July, following the discovery of additional cases of community transfer in Queensland.
Noosa residents can only leave home for one of these four reasons:
1. To buy essentials such as groceries or medications
2. Work or study if you can’t do either from home
3. Exercise in your local area
4. Healthcare or to provide help, care or support
Masks are required whenever you leave home.
A number of free COVID-19 testing clinics are open across Noosa.
Sullivan & Nicolaides offers covid testing at a number of clinics across Noosa.
4Cyte operates a Walk-In clinic for covid testing at their 22 Doonella Street Tewantin clinic. To know other sites, visit Queensland Health’s website.
COVID-19 vaccinations have commenced in Noosa. Find out if you are eligible for the vaccine and how to book a vaccine at www.vaccinebookings.health.qld.gov.au
As the situation can change rapidly, make sure to stay updated via www.covid19.qld.gov.au
