Northern Beaches Health Restrictions

I welcome the Premier’s announcement this morning of continued high levels of testing in NSW following record numbers on Monday and Tuesday. The only way we will get on top of this virus is by keeping these testing numbers high and remaining vigilant for even the mildest symptoms.

I further welcome her announcement that we will ease restrictions on households in the Manly area ahead of Christmas. This is testament to the hard work of our medical professionals and each and every person in the Manly area who has listened to the health advice, remained at home, and stopped the spread of the virus.

I understand that many people will be disappointed that we won’t have the Christmas that we were hoping for, but our ongoing effort will ensure that we remain on top of this virus. We can be relieved however that the low number of cases allows us in Manly to spend time together over the next few days.

I also pass on heartfelt commiserations to the people of the Northern Beaches beyond the Narrabeen Bridge. The sacrifices they are making are appreciated by people right across NSW.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all of the health officials, nurses and doctors who have worked tirelessly over this period to keep our community safe and well over the holidays.

No matter what happens over the coming days, this is going to be a very different Christmas than any of us have had before. Family from overseas or over state borders have never felt so far away. For some families, this will be the first Christmas without a close loved one. But this Christmas, I encourage everyone to celebrate the health that we do have in Australia, and remind ourselves of what we can be grateful for.

As always please keep up to date with health advice at the NSW Health Website, and make sure you’re not bringing a COVID present to this year’s Christmas celebrations.