More than 600 people denied entry into Queensland as state records no new virus cases

More than 600 people were turned away at Queensland’s borders over the weekend as the state records no new COVID-19 cases.

More than 600 people were turned around at Queensland’s border over the weekend, more than a week since the state shut out millions of Australians in declared hot spots.

It comes as Queensland recorded no new COVID-19 cases in the 24 hours to Monday, more than two weeks since the last case of community transmission.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said it was more good news but warned against complacency.

Chief health officer Dr Jeannette Young said until clusters of community transmission were brought under control in New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT, Queensland’s borders would remain shut.

“We have to be even more careful with anyone coming into Queensland from a hot spot,” she said.

Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said over the long weekend more than 600 people were denied entry into the Sunshine State.

Almost 600 people were turned away at Queensland's road borders over the weekend. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Steve Holland

“We had a very busy long weekend, we processed 132 flights and 7230 passengers coming through our airports,” he said.

“From those, 19 people were refused entry and 740 were quarantined.

“At our road borders, 8061 vehicles were intercepted and 594 people were turned around.

“If you’re coming out of a hot spot and trying to get into Queensland, you won’t be allowed in (unless you have an exemption).”

Mr Gollschewski said there were 3227 people in hotel quarantine across Queensland.

Ms Palaszczuk said 2519 tests had been carried out over the 24 hours to Monday morning.

There are only eight active cases in the state and three people in hospital.

“It has been 16 days since the last case of community transmission,” Health Minister Steven Miles said.

It comes as federal Health Minister Greg Hunt ignited hopes Australians could have access to a COVID-19 vaccine by next year.