A reward for good conduct

THIS long weekend is a chance for the people of the Far North to celebrate the success of COVID-19 restrictions.

The government has announced an easing of controls from midnight tonight. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has congratulated most people for abiding by the coronavirus limitations over the past couple of months.

The Far North has been free of new cases for more than a week but we can’t stop being vigilant and must abide by ongoing restrictions.

However, this long weekend is time for many to give themselves and their families a break from staying at home.

If the weather is good and the boat’s big enough, most anglers will have their sights set on a reef fishing adventure this weekend.

Far Northerners will be able to have a picnic in a park, on the beach or by a creek or river.

They can go for a short drive but no further than 50km from home.

For many that rules out Mission Beach or Port Douglas but Palm Cove and some of the southern waterholes are in reach. Some national parks are within 50km too and the use of a motorbike, jetski or boat for pleasure is OK. Non-essential retailers will welcome shoppers with open arms.

The police will be patrolling highways and other roads heavily to ensure motorists and their passengers are abiding by the rules. Mobile speed cameras will be back in force.

But social distancing and hygiene must be maintained, travel can be no further than 50km away from home and outings are limited to members of the same household or an individual and one friend.

Enjoy but do not abuse the privileges.