Bars, cinemas to reopen Monday

WANGARATTA district pubs will be pouring beers for locals without the requirement to have a meal from next Monday.Cinemas, concert venues, theatres and auditoriums can open, also from next Monday, with up to 50 people per space. Premier Daniel Andrews announced yesterday the reopening of pubs and clubs, which will be able to host up to 50 patrons.He said there will be no requirement to purchase a meal with your drink, however, you’ll need to give your contact details and table service restrictions will still apply. “In recent weeks we’ve laid out our state’s careful plan for the gradual easing of restrictions,” he said. “A cautious and considered approach that has relied on data to help guide our decisions. “Because of the progress we’ve made – and the evidence base we’ve built – I can confirm those proposed changes will go ahead. “It also means we’re able to bring forward a number of other changes too.” Standalone TABs will also be able to reopen from next Monday in line with rules on retail businesses while TABs in pubs will need to observe density and patron limits that apply to those venues. However, electronic gaming areas at pubs, clubs and the casino will not be allowed to reopen until July 20. Libraries, community centres and halls will be able to open to 50 people from next Monday. Religious ceremonies can also increase to 50. Recognising the lower rate of transmission amongst younger people, all sports training and competition will resume for those 18 and under. Non-contact sports competition can also begin across every age group. Indoor sports centres and physical recreation spaces like gyms will be able to open to 20 people per space, with a cap of up to 10 per group for those over the age of 18. Local footy teams, soccer clubs and other contact sports will be able to resume training for over 18s from July 13. And from July 20, full competition can begin too. Supporting this gradual return to sport, clubs and community facilities will also be able to reopen their changerooms. Up to 50 people per space from next Monday will apply to holiday accommodation and camping sites, with communal spaces like showers and kitchens soon to be available to visitors. “In line with our previously proposed changes, and from 11:59pm on June 21, restaurants and cafes will also be able to increase the number of patrons to 50,” Mr Andrews said. “The same increased limit will apply to our galleries, museums and amusement parks. “And from June 22, ski season and ski accommodation will also open. “We’re asking Victorians: keep washing your hands. Keep maintaining your distance. Download COVIDSafe. “And if you can keep working from home – you must do that too. “In addition to ongoing testing, we’re stepping-up our targeted testing too. “Zeroing in on communities with low testing rates or high case numbers. “If you have symptoms, no matter how mild, you must get tested. “Because we all have a part to play.” The total number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Victoria is 1720, with nine new cases reported on Saturday, on top of eight cases confirmed on Friday.

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