Dear Editor,
The decision not to include most of regional Victoria in the six week COVID-19 lockdown will provide some long overdue relief for country businesses and communities.
We desperately needed the news that we will not face further lockdowns as a result of outbreaks in Melbourne.
Now the Premier must implement what he’s said about further easing of restrictions in regional Victoria, including allowing our pubs and clubs to have 50 patrons and the reopening of our gaming establishments.
Despite the low number of cases in most of country Victoria, please remember – now is not the time to be complacent.
The virus is still out there and it’s critical we continue to be vigilant to protect the people around us and save lives.
Remember to keep practicing good hygiene, including coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow and washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.
Maintain physical distancing by staying at least 1.5 metres from others.
Keep up to date on the risk and symptoms of the virus so you know what to look for and what to do if you begin to feel unwell.
Prevention is the best medicine, but – and this is critical – if you do feel unwell, the advice is clear: stay at home. Get tested.
Our continued vigilance will save lives and ensure our country communities can stay open and in business.
Peter Walsh
Leader of The Nationals
Member for Murray Plains
