COVID-19 free summer: Govt’s plan to keep Tasmanians safe as tourists pour into the state

Summer is here – even if the weather disagrees, tourists are pouring into the state and cricket matches are set to begin, but Premier Peter Gutwein has warned Tasmanians not to forget about the pandemic. SEE THE PLAN TO KEEP US SAFE >>

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LIFTING testing rates high and continuing with sensible precautions will be the key to winding back COVID-19 related restrictions, Premier Peter Gutwein says.

The Premier and Health Minister Sarah Courtney launched the summer edition of the government's Keep On Top Of COVID campaign at Bellerive Oval.

Mr Gutwein said he was concerned testing rates were too low.

“I want to impress upon Tasmanians just how important it is that as a state, we continue to do the right thing,” he said.

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein speaks to the media at Blundstone Arena on Monday, December 7, 2020. PHOTO: DAVID KILLICK

“We all want to have a great summer but importantly, we want to ensure that our testing rates stay high.

“Currently, they’re at about half the rate of the other major states.

Tasmanians, I want to implore you, if you’ve got a sniffle, if you’ve got any form of symptom at all, please step forward and get tested.

“That is going to ensure that as we move forward, and with events like this, where we start with a capacity of around 50 per cent if we take a step forward and do more in venues like this, if we to do more in terms of removing some of the restrictions, we need to keep our testing rates high.”

Ms Courtney said Tasmanians needed to maintain vigilance, despite the length of time since the state last had a case of the virus.

“Tasmanians have so far done a good job keeping on top of COVID, however it’s important that we don’t become complacent especially over the summer period when we’re out and about more,” she said.

“As we begin the festive season, the campaign’s refreshed messaging, including a new television advertisement, will focus on how we can enjoy gatherings in a COVID-safe way including Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, family get-togethers, as well as sporting and cultural events.”

She said the cricket matches to be played over summer would test new COVID-safe measures

“We are very lucky to be getting extra Big Bash matches in our own backyard this summer, with 10 matches of this season’s competition to be played here in Hobart and Launceston, with our Hobart Hurricanes playing six of these.

“This is an amazing opportunity for Tasmanians and I encourage you to get out and experience these world-class matches.

“With the first Big Bash game in Tasmania only three days away, this new COVID-safe messaging will remind cricket fans to continue to keep up COVID-safe behaviours so we can continue to support the Hobart Hurricanes in their home state.”

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