FNQ golfers flirt with COVID-19 restrictions

Cairns golfers are willing to flirt with the government’s COVID-19 travel restrictions to get in a round of the game they love.

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Cairns golfers are willing to flirt with the government’s COVID-19 travel restrictions to get in a round of the game they love.

With their course closed in response to the coronavirus crisis, two Cairns Golf Club members travelled to Atherton Golf Club to take part in Wednesday’s competition, raising questions about whether or not such travel falls into the “essential” category.

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Far North Queensland Golf Association president Stewy Worth said he believed it could be considered essential travel for exercise.

“They can travel to exercise and they are allowed to participate in a game of golf, as it’s a safe way to exercise,” he said.

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“If their facility’s not available, then it’s necessary for them to travel to undertake their exercise.”

In Queensland, there are no specific rules on the distance you are allowed to travel to exercise, however the government has urged residents to use common sense, avoid unnecessary travel and exercise locally where possible.

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Worth said not being able to play golf would be a difficult blow to many people, with the game providing a respite from the ongoing uncertainty of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“Social distancing does not mean complete social and mental isolation,” he said.

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“We’re very conscious of the mental health side of things and how golf is a release for a lot of people.

“It provides both physical and mental health benefits, while making sure people can still maintain a safe social distance.

“We’re in a very privileged position and we need to take care of that privilege, and the clubs are certainly taking on board and enforcing the recommendations.”

Originally published as FNQ golfers flirt with COVID-19 restrictions