By Mitchell Clarke
Outdoor playgrounds, gym equipment and skate parks are the latest facilities to reopen across the Cardinia Shire, as the State Government continues to relax strict Covid-19 restrictions.
In a sign of some normalcy, Premier Daniel Andrews announced further restrictions would be lifted from 11.59pm on Sunday 31 May, as part of a “cautious and considered” approach to reopening the state.
From that date, households will be able to welcome a total of 20 people indoors, with outdoor gatherings also set to increase from 10 people to 20.
Those sick of staying at home will be able to head away, in a welcome boost for the tourism industry, with overnight stays now classed as legal.
In welcome news for those itching to pitch their tent, campgrounds and caravan parks will reopen to some extent, with communal kitchens and bathrooms to stay locked.
Back home, the local Men’s Shed as well as the Pakenham and Emerald Library have been given the green light to reopen, as the State Government announces libraries, youth centres and various other community facilities can welcome 20 people in a single area, from 11.59pm on Sunday 31 May.
Also from that date, entertainment and cultural venues such as galleries and museums can officially open their doors, with a limit of 20 patrons per space.
Beauty and personal care services such as nail salons, spas and tattoo parlours will be able to open to 20 customers per space, provided that contact details are left in the case of an outbreak.
Now, 20 people can attend weddings, plus the celebrant and couple, and up to 50 people will be able to attend a funeral, in additional to those required to conduct the ceremony.
Further restrictions are slated to be eased from 22 June, provided community transmission rates continue to remain low and testing rates continue to remain high.
From that date, indoor fitness and recreation facilities can reopen with up to 20 people per space and up to 10 people per group.
Up to 50 people will also be allowed to head out to a restaurant or a café for a meal.
Premier Daniel Andrews said the message to the community had shifted from ‘stay home’ to ‘stay safe’.
“With the rate of community transmission remaining low, and the rate of testing remaining high, we’re in a position to make a number of additional changes,” he said.
“In all your activities, be considered. Be cautious. Use your common sense. And if you don’t have to do it – don’t.
“By making these small sacrifices, we’re each contributing to something much greater than ourselves.”
