NEW data shows that the national vaccine roll-out is ramping up significantly.
It is now taking just six days to deliver one million doses, and there are no signs that of slowing down.
Our region is also leading the way, with 48 percent of the people over the age 16 have already received their first dose, compared to the national average of 46 percent.
At this rate, the nation is on track to reach the target of 80 percent of people fully vaccinated by October this year.
Once this target is reached, lockdowns and border restrictions will be a thing of the past, and life will look more normal, albeit COVID normal.
Of course, this relies on the willingness of all Australians coming forward for a jab as soon as it is available.
Our local efforts to deliver the vaccine will be greatly assisted by our community pharmacies.
Priceline, Advantage Pharmacy, Chemist Warehouse Langtree, and Terry White in Mildura and Red Cliffs, as well as Keens Pharmacy Merbein, are all joining the vaccine roll-out beginning next week.
I spoke to Eric at Chemist Warehouse, who is keen to get on with the job.
His pharmacy will be delivering Astra Zeneca vaccine and Pfizer and Moderna when supplies are available.
I was pleased to assist Eric to resolve a visa issue for one of his fantastic pharmacists, Sameh, recently.
He is now back at work, which is a huge win, and never more important than right now.
As families, businesses, sporting clubs and community groups continue to grapple with the challenges of border restrictions and lockdowns, we are reminded of the importance of stepping up for the jab.
These vaccines are our ticket to freedom.
I encourage everyone to out their hand up for our community.
