THE coronavirus

underscores just how much we are exposed to the effects of a global marketplace and how that effect drills into every aspect of our lives. Nations and governments can set up artificial borders where a mere step and a passport can result in a change of culture and law. But the physical borders of mountains, rivers and oceans are easily breached by modern transport.

The virus also sends a warning of how diligent we must be and what responsibilities we have in containing the epicentre of an outbreak. We are unlikely to completely dodge this bullet.

We as a nation have decided to shut down travel from infected areas. That comes at a cost. In the years to come, some will argue if that cost was worth it.

Here on the Gold Coast the effect is starting to bite. The flow-on effect of the decline in the tourism market is registering in a slowdown of spending in seemingly unrelated areas. At the apex of those affected are our tourism operators and retailers. As staff and hours are cut, so is their spending which triggers a similar effect down the chain. These will become more visible as time passes.

We have always been a city of innovation, pushed the envelope, done the hard yards and come out ahead because of it. Support local businesses by spending locally. Think carefully if you are exporting jobs by spending online. And take note of holidaying at home.

We are in for challenging times. That’s when we really show what

we are made of. Can we do it?

I think we can, but that journey begins with each and every one of us. Let’s get it done.

ROBERT JANSSEN, GOLD COAST