Gold Coast’s COVID-19 restrictions lifted as officials warn locals must behave

From today Gold Coasters will be able to enjoy more recreational activities outside with some COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, but officials warn people must behave.

STATE leaders, police and health experts have lauded the Gold Coast’s selfless ability to help flatten the coronavirus curve in the past three months.

But they have one warning as they ease restrictions this weekend: Don’t stuff it up.

From midnight last night, Queenslanders can travel within 50km of their house for non-essential purposes, but Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Health Minister Steven Miles urged people not to abuse it.

Dozens of retail outlets in the Coast’s largest shopping centres, including Oasis, Harbour Town and Pacific Fair are expected to reopen today under the new orders, but locals are remined to keep their distance from one another.

“Queenslanders have done so well and should be proud that their hard work is flattening the curve,” the Premier said.

People on the beach at Miami on the Gold Coast. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

“The first sign of a spike we will not hesitate to clamp back.

“I’m asking all Queenslanders to enjoy the relaxation but continue to follow the rules.”

Dr Miles said: “This weekend you can go for a picnic, ride a motorbike, go fishing or shopping, as long as it is within a 50km radius of your house and you continue to follow social distancing, including only going out with your household or one other person.”

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The Premier and Health Minister laid down three rules people must apply to: stay within a 50km radius of your principal place of residence; you can be accompanied only by members of their household or, alternatively, by no more than one person who is not a member of their household; and maintain social distancing.

Gold Coast District Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler echoed the three rules, but said one will be different on the Gold Coast.

Social distancing in Broadbeach park. Supplied

“We have a slight anomaly in the Gold Coast district, in that 50 kilometres only relates to in the state of Queensland.

“If you live close to the border, for example someone who lives in Coolangatta, the 50 kilometres does not extend into New South Wales.

“People considering going down to the northern beaches of New South Wales for a surf or swim, New South Wales police will be out in force and you may find yourself liable to a $1000 fine.”

Supt Wheeler said police had being planning for this weekend and had monitored higher profile areas.

“We have identified areas including beaches and parkland, our shopping centres and also the Hinterland around the national parks,” he said.

“We expect to see more people around all our major shopping centres, we are well aware of that. Police will continue to enhancing patrols.”

Empty Harbour Town during COVID-19 that will be eased from today. Pic Mike Batterham

Harbour Town premium outlets centre manager Greg Day said signage about social distancing and maximum capacities would be in place across the shopping centre, and more security and centre staff would be monitoring entrances and roaming the area.

“We look forward to seeing shoppers out and about enjoying the Gold Coast’s beautiful sunshine while indulging in some non-essential shopping,” he said.

“We would like to remind all shoppers to please practise responsible shopping which includes social distancing, following stores’ instructions on maximum capacities and personal hygiene.”