VICTORIAN premier Daniel Andrews says regional Victoria should be proud of the way it has handled the coronavirus.
There are currently only two active COVID-19 cases in regional Victoria, both in the Shepparton area.
The low numbers, which come as seven new cases were recorded on Sunday, have lead to the government easing some restrictions in regional Victoria.
As part of the Third Step and from 11.59pm on Tuesday indoor gyms and fitness spaces will be able to open for up to 20 people, with a maximum of 10 per space and a density of one person per 8 square metres.
Indoor pools will open to 20.
Indoor non contact sport will begin for those 18 and under.
Food courts can open. Live music can resume as part of outdoor hospitality and school graduations can be held within school communities.
For religious celebrations, 20 people can gather together indoors with their faith leader – or 50 outdoors.
“Regional Victorians should be proud of this success. Everyone should be proud of this success,” Mr Andrews said.
“Because soon, it will belong to our whole state. From hundreds of cases to single digits, we have driven this virus down.
“And we are so close – so close – to beating this thing. I’m asking each of you: keep going. Dig deep. Stay strong. Let’s win this fight, and let’s win it for good.”
Member for Mildura Ali Cupper said Sunday’s announcement for a range of activities to resume showed how small the risk of COVID-19 was in regional Victoria.
She renewed calls for South Australia and New South Wales to now relax their border restrictions with Victoria.
“Gyms and fitness studios remaining closed has been one of the main issues raised with me in recent weeks. For so many people, gyms are place to boost both physical and mental health,” Ms Cupper said.
“But the border closures with South Australia and New South Wales remain the biggest cause of angst and I would urge the Premiers of those two states to now seriously consider reopening – this week.”
