2000 fans allowed in Queensland stadiums from Saturday
As many as 2000 fans will be allowed into Queensland stadiums from the weekend. Described as a ‘small step back to normal’, it comes as the state recorded one new case of coronavirus overnight.
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UP TO 2000 fans will be allowed in Queensland stadiums from this Saturday.
Deputy Premier and Health Minister Steven Miles told Parliament this morning that some of the sporting codes had requested this number – 2000 – as a trial.
“That number might not be reached but it is an acknowledgment of how well the codes and the fans have done their part in controlling the spread of COVID-19,” he said.
“Like a great game of football, we have to ensure our defences. But we also have to make our breaks when we can.
“Queensland has earned this small step back to normal.”
COVID-safe plans have been approved for stadiums including The Gabba, Suncorp Stadium and Metricon Stadium.
Whether more fans will be allowed back in the future will depend on how the trial goes this weekend.
“We’re approving a staged approach to returning fans to major sporting events and crowd numbers will continue to be evaluated,” Mr Miles said.
“There will be a focus on extra cleaning and sanitisation and venues have demonstrated social distancing in their seating plans with segmented zones with 17 dedicated facilities and exits to reduce potential for virus spread.
“One of the benefits of events in stadia is that they are ticketed, which helps to enable tracing requirements if necessary.”
Sports Minister Mick de Brenni said stadiums were implementing a ‘checkerboard’ approach to the sale of seat tickets.
Fans will not be allowed to get player’s autographs.
Meanwhile, one new Queensland coronavirus case was recorded overnight - a woman who is in hotel quarantine on the Gold Coast.
Mr Miles said it was likely she contracted the virus overseas.
There have now been 1066 cases in Queensland, with five currently active.
Mr Miles said Queensland was in an enviable position.
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