Residents urged to stay home for Easter

The Balonne Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) is urging residents stay home for Easter in line with coronavirus restrictions.

LDMG acting Chair Matthew Magin said there were still no confirmed cases in the south-west region and if residents remained at home for Easter it would stay that way.

“The Balonne LDMG wants to reinforce that message by asking residents to advise their families against travelling unless it is absolutely necessary,” he said.

“The Premier reiterated that message in a call to all councils yesterday.”

The group was also advised that the Dirranbandi Hospital would dispense medications to the community while the Dirranbandi Chemist was closed from 8-20 April.

Mr Magin said the Queensland Police Service had advised that 24-hour border control measures were continuing.

“Since the border was closed police have stopped 566 vehicles with 685 people at Mungindi and Hebel 112 vehicles with 165 people,” he said. “Of those 678 vehicles only two were turned around.

“Police also advised that minibuses used for transporting workers were not exempt from the COVID-19 restrictions which states there should only be two people unless it’s family in a vehicle at any time.

“We understand this may cause issues, but employers using minivans for transportation are asked to consider other options which comply with the current restrictions.”

Mr Magin thanked residents and businesses for their efforts in containing the spread of COVID-19.

“We are extremely grateful to all who are abiding by the restrictions and thank them for their patience during these trying times,” he said.

“By staying home, staying 1.5m away from others, keeping shopping trips to a minimum and avoiding non-essential travel you have all helped us stay COVID-19 free. Let’s keep it that way.”