Young Darwinites line up for Pfizer jab as vaccine rollout expands

The Northern Territory is bracing for a wave of interstate visitors looking to get the Coivd-19 vaccine after the jab was today made available to everyone 16 and over.

• Mass vaccine clinic planned while Danila Dilba expects extra day to cater for demand
• Tranches collapsed in Darwin as Covid-19 vaccines opened up to everyone in NT over 16

THE Northern Territory is bracing for a wave of interstate visitors looking to get the Coivd-19 vaccine after the jab was today made available to everyone 16 and over.

Health Minister Natasha Fyles said while they were not encouraging “vaccine tourism” people visiting from interstate would be able to access the vaccine while in the Territory.

“It’s particularly important for people that might have received their first dose interstate and might be travelling,” she said.

“It is really visiting season here in the Territory and so it’s important not to miss that all important second vaccine, you can access it through our system.”

24-year-old Darwin resident Andrew Venes received his first shot of Pfizer on Tuesday. Picture: Natasha Emeck

The vaccine clinic at Royal Darwin Hospital was full this morning with people getting their COVID-19 jab, after the rollout was opened up to everyone in the NT over the age of 16.

24-year-old Darwin resident Andrew Venes, who received his first shot of Pfizer on Tuesday, said a few of his friends living interstate were a bit envious he had the opportunity to get vaccinated already.

“I had a couple of friends, a bit jealous that I got the opportunity to do it but they’ll get their chance in due time I’m sure,” he said.

“I’ll be pushing for a few of my mates in Melbourne to try and escape Victoria, when it all settles down a bit and I’ve got a room for them when they’re ready.”

Follow @tashemeck