Brisbane plunged into snap COVID lockdown

While NSW issues an alert

Brisbane plunged into snap COVID lockdown

From 5pm today Greater Brisbane will start a three day lockdown following four confirmed community transmitted cases of the mutant UK strain of Covid-19.

“This is essential that we do this to stop further transmission,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

“We’ve seen what’s happened in other countries. I don’t want to see that happen to Queensland. I don’t want to see that happen to Australia. I know it is a really big call. I know it is really tough.”

“I know this is a big call – we have Easter coming up and school holidays – but let’s do it now and come through the other end. This is a protective measure but it’s the right thing to do on the health advice.”

Masks will be mandatory and schools will close, and already the state is trying to downplay any panic.

In a nutshell:

  • Greater Brisbane to enter shutdown for 3 days
  • Residents and people who have visited the area since March 20th can only leave the house for four “essential’ reasons:
  • Essential work
  • Food
  • Medical Reasons
  • Exercise

Mortgage clients in hospitality and tourism – both important drivers for the Queensland economy will be reeling.

“It’s devastating news and a cruel blow,” said Daniel Gschwind of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council. “We were hoping that Easter would bring the relief that we need.”

Following the news, NSW health has issued an alert for two venues in Byron Bay that have been classified to be “at risk” from the latest Qld cluster – Byron Bay Beach Hotel on Friday March 23rd, and The Farm at Byron Bay on March 28th.

Visitors to either venue at the relevant time and date are being told to get tested and then isolate until further notice.