Expect Easter crackdown

TASMANIANS considering a getaway to their shacks over the Easter period have been told they will be pulled over, turned around and potentially charged if they try.

Premier Peter Gutwein and Police Commissioner Darren Hine warned against unnecessary travel, as authorities adopted a hard-line approach to protect Tasmanians from coronavirus.

The State Government has repeatedly urged Tasmanians to stay at home and avoid any non-essential travel.

Extensive patrols on roads to monitor travel and random checks of usually uninhabited shacks will be carried out throughout the weekend, Commissioner Hine said.

Mr Gutwein acknowledged the Easter period would be a difficult one for Tasmanians, but said it was important for people to follow the rules.

“This Easter we’re asking people to have an Easter like they have not had before,’’ he said. “This will be an Easter where you will need to stay at home. This is an Easter where you won’t be able to go to the shack, you won’t be able to launch your boat — this is an Easter where we need you to work with us.

“We are starting to flatten the curve, but it’s important that we continue to ensure that these rules are abided by.”

Commissioner Hine said police would be out in force to ensure people were complying with the rules.

“Don’t go to your shack over Easter,’’ he said. “If you are travelling, be expected to be intercepted by police and asked where you are going.

“If you are about to get onto the Bruny Island ferry, expect to see police and be asked what you are doing on the ferry if you’re not a resident.

“If you’re actually at your shack and it’s not normally occupied, expect police to knock on your door and ask what you’re doing there.”

Commissioner Hine said fines of up to $16,800 could apply to people travelling without a reasonable excuse.

“It’s a really simple rule to follow,’’ he said. “Do not travel to your shack if you don’t need to go because, again, you’re putting strain on those communities and we want to keep those communities safe.”

Mr Gutwein said it was not a time for Tasmanians to become complacent.

“Now is the time for all Tasmanians to do their bit, to be responsible to ensure that we can get on top of this thing,’’ he said.

“If you love your family, if you love your friends, make sure that you follow the rule. Do not take the risk of spreading the virus into other communities. Stay home, abide by the rules and save lives.”