Peter Gutwein updates Tasmania on the COVID situation

In a move that will make Tasmanian bars and restaurants return to some sort of normality, 8-ball (pool) and darts will be allowed again. SEE WHEN RESTRICTIONS WILL EASE >>

• How do I get the $100 ‘Make Yourself at Home’ travel voucher?
• South Australia urges so-called safe states to open up to get families back together

UPDATE:

A dozen Tasmanian healthcare workers will join the frontline of the COVID-19 crisis, Premier Peter Gutwein announced yesterday

Tasmania was standing with Victoria at a difficult time, the Premier said.

“We will be providing a contingent of 12 health care workers, including three Ausmat staff and nine nursing staff, who will be departing over the weekend to assist at the frontline.

“I wish these courageous and hardworking Tasmanians the very best as they work to support Victoria at this difficult time.”

Following a meeting of national cabinet, Mr Gutwein announced that Tasmanian bars and restaurants will be able to again allow eight-ball and darts will be allowed again but the end of next weeks in an easing of restrictions.

But dancing remains off cards.

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Mr Gutwein said he was thankful for the work of Tasmanians in limiting the spread of coronavirus.

“We are in a really good spot, Every time I go to National Cabinet, I leave feeling thankful,” he said.

And he said he was unaware of comments from South Australian Premier Steven Marshall — singling out the Tasmania over it’s tough border restrictions.

“It surprised me actually, I hadn’t seen that when I went into national cabinet and when I came out I saw a report that said that,” he said

“He never raised it with me today. I’ll probably give him a call over the weekend to have a chat. He’s a delightful fellow and certainly works very hard in his own state. “

Mr Gutwein said the December 1 date for reopening state borders would remain firm unless public health advice changed.

He said the time was needed to give time for the aged care and hospital systems time to prepare and to protect the economy.

“Tasmanians should plan for first of December,” Mr Gutwein said.

Starting September 1, Tasmanians will have access to interstate travel vouchers which the Premier hoped Tasmanians would make the most of.

INITIAL:

Premier Peter Gutwein is about to address the media, updating the state on the COVID-19 situation in Tasmania.

This follows an announcement earlier today by the South Australia Premier Steven Marshall asking Tasmania to consider a travel bubble with so-called safe states including SA, NT, ACT, and WA.

WATCH THE PRESS CONFERENCE HERE:

Live 3pm - Premier Peter Gutwein will give a coronavirus update. 🎤 Audio will commence at the start of the press conference.

Posted by The Mercury Newspaper on Thursday, 20 August 2020

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