Public barred from AFWL as coronavirus crisis deepens

THE scheduled AFLW match in Alice Springs this weekend will not be allowing spectators in as the nation ramps up efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus at large gatherings

The public wont be able to attend the AFWL match in Alice Springs this weekend. Picture: Getty Images

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THE scheduled AFLW match in Alice Springs this weekend will not be allowing spectators in as the nation ramps up efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus at large gatherings.

A statement from the AFL informed fans that they will not be able to attend future matches including this weekend’s match between Carlton and Melbourne.

“As of March 14, NAB AFLW matches will only host players, coaches, essential club officials, umpires, AFL officials, broadcast teams, media and required venue staff with no supporters permitted to attend,” the statement said.

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Given the timing, tonight’s NAB AFLW match between the Geelong Cats and North Melbourne will proceed as planned, with fans permitted to attend if they chose to.”

Mass gatherings of more than 500 people – like sporting games and concerts – will be banned from this Monday to limit the spread of the coronavirus across Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced.

The Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner met today with the Prime Minister and other State and Territory leaders to consider the impacts of the coronavirus throughout Australia.

“We agreed to form a National Cabinet to co-ordinate a national response to the coronavirus outbreak. The National Cabinet will meet weekly to take advice and co-ordinate action so we can do all we can to contain and manage the spread of the virus,” Mr Gunner said.

“COAG also considered evidence of increased transmission of the virus throughout other parts of Australia, as well as disruptions to the international supply chain for medical equipment.”

While the spread of the virus continues to be low, Australia’s Chief Health and Medical Officers have recommended that, from Monday, governments advise against organised, non-essential gatherings of 500 or more people.

This does not include essential gatherings such as going to school, university, work, public transport or airports.

The National Cabinet will meet again on Sunday to consider more advice on implementation, before making further announcements.

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In the Territory, there continues to be only one positive case, and no community spread of the virus.

On Thursday an NT Major Events Company spokesperson confirmed with the Centralian Advocate that planned major events could still go ahead safely however national advice has since changed as infections rise.

“The health and wellbeing of anyone attending is paramount. We will continue to monitor the situation and will put in place additional health and safety measures where required, and provide updates accordingly,” the spokesperson said.

In the Territory, there continues to be only one positive case, and no community spread of the virus.