International borders to finally reopen for Cairns
Some families across Cairns shed a tear when it was announced that international borders will reopen to vaccinated travellers as early as 1am Saturday. READ THEIR STORIES
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SOME families across Cairns shed a tear on Wednesday when it was announced that Queensland’s international borders will reopento vaccinated travellers as early as 1am Saturday.
Many have waited two years to see their families and important gatherings such as weddings and family reunions can finally go ahead.
Rachel Wilkins moved to Cairns from Wales six years ago and her mother is still yet to meet her grandson.
Ms Wilkins said when the news was announced she shed a tear as her mother could finally meet her almost two-year-old son Lewys and see her three-year-old daughter Rose.
“My mother was meant to come over when my son was born,” she said.
“We would have had that one-on-one quality time that you look forward to having.”
But Covid did not let that happen. Ms Wilkins is also excited she will see her 84-year-old grandfather again.
“His wish was that before he dies he wants to have another trip to come and see us. It will be good that he will get that wish,” she said.
International students were also rejoicing at the news on Wednesday, which will allow vaccinated arrivals to come to Cairns without the requirement to quarantine.
Sun Pacific College principal Braden Smith said it was finally an opportunity to get some normality now they can welcome international students again.
“We’ve had students that have pre-booked that have been ready since March last year,” he said.
It really is a great relief. We will probably experience some record numbers within the 18 months.”
Mr Smith said they had been lagging behind other countries such as Canada and America and other states but it was no longer the case.
While some weddings that were waiting to go ahead will finally get a fair go.
South Pacific Bridal director Peter Ford said it was a step in the right direction.
“There certainly are people who were waiting to see the rules,” he said.
“They have friends and relatives waiting overseas so they have not commit to a wedding date til they have more certainty.”
But it isn’t just people wanting to have their wedding excited, some people are ready to attend some nuptials overseas.
Leonie Bischoff from Cairns said she had missed out on many events overseas.
“My best friend got married last June in Sweden but I couldn’t go,” she said.
“Last year they only did a small wedding. They are planning on doing a big one this year.
“So I want to go June and July this year.”
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