Emma Kealy for Lowan | Politician
Emma Kealy for Lowan
Phone: +61 3 5382 0097
Reviews
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25.01.2022 My office has been overwhelmed this morning with people at breaking point over Dan Andrews roadblock lockdowns with no end in sight and demanding a localised approach to restrictions. The mental, physical, social and economic harm caused by lockdown is immense and has not been considered at all by the Premier. If Dan Andrews was serious about not extending lockdowns a day longer than necessary, then he must immediately change his concept that everywhere outside of Melbourne... should be thrown in the same basket. Cases in Mallacoota, Wodonga or even Geelong have no relevance to the risk of cases hundreds of kilometres away in our corner of the state. It is disastrous for our people, and plain lazy modelling which has been focused on Melbourne from the start. I fully support the position taken by the COVID Doctors Network, esteemed Victorian medical professionals that are seeing first hand the harm caused by lockdowns. I quote from their open letter, The medical, psychological and social costs of the lockdown are disproportionately enormous compared to the limited good being done by current policies, and are relevant factors to be taken into account by any responsible government. So please, send a message to the Premier. He needs to hear the strong voice of Rural Victoria: http://Vicn.at/messagetodan
25.01.2022 SA - VIC CROSS BORDER CHANGES From midnight tonight the defined region for cross border community members will expand from 40km from the SA border to 70km. This means any Victorian who lives within the 70km zone from SA border (think of a parallel line to the border, not distance by road) may apply for a cross border community permit and travel anywhere within the 70km zone from the border in SA. This permit does not stop Victorians travelling beyond the 70km zone within Vict...oria. The SA Govt is also considering reducing the frequency of COVID testing. More to come on this soon. For more info and to apply for a SA cross border permit, go here: https://www.police.sa.gov.au//cross-border-travel-applicat For questions or assistance, please contact my office directly on 53820097 or email [email protected]
25.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Wednesday 19 August 2020 Victoria stats: 216 new cases 17,446 total cases 7,155 active cases (119)...Continue reading
25.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Tuesday 18 August 2020 Victoria stats: 222 new cases 17,238 total cases 7,274 active cases (200)...Continue reading
24.01.2022 Kaniva has joined the silo art trail! Just gorgeous. Time to add Kaniva to your road trip bucket list and see what this fantastic town has to offer.
24.01.2022 SOUTH AUSTRALIA IN SIX DAY LOCKDOWN The SA Premier has announced SA will go into a ‘circuit breaker’ lockdown from midnight tonight for the coming six days to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. We wish our South Australian neighbours the very best to get on top of their outbreak ASAP. Stay safe. ... The following information regarding new directions have been provided by SA Police: The following will be permitted to remain OPERATIONAL to maintain critical services only: Critical infrastructure including power, telecommunications, water; Supermarkets for essential food; Bottle shops; Medical supplies and medical services; Public transport; Airport and essential freight; Petrol stations; Post offices and banking institutions; Child care and schools for essential services workers only; Veterinary; Essential agriculture services ; Factories remain open for essential machinery upkeep and production of essential products only; and Mining and smelting for continuity and to prevent damage. People will only be able to leave the house for the following reasons: To go to work as an emergency services worker or to worker providing essential services; For agricultural work; To receive medical care including seeking COVID-19 testing; To obtain medical supplies; One person from the household once a day to attend supermarkets to obtain essential supplies; Organised end of life visits; and In an emergency situation. ***NOTE YOU CAN NOT LEAVE YOUR HOUSE TO EXERCISE. The following businesses will CLOSE: Takeaway food services; Shops (excluding essential food services); Universities and tertiary education facilities; Pubs/restaurants/café/food courts; Elective surgery/ except cancer; Open inspections and auctions; Fly in fly out worker; Aged care and disability facilities will go into lockdown; Construction industry; Holiday homes and other holiday accommodation and no further bookings; Wedding and funerals cancelled and banned; Outdoor sport/fitness/exercise not permitted; and Regional travel not permitted Please remain calm and be patient while we work together to get this information out to the community of South Australia. All existing directions, frequently asked questions and other information can be found here: https://www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/emergency-declarations You will need to wait for further information in relation to this however, if you have any pressing questions in relation to COVID-19 information please contact the SA COVID-19 Information Line on 1800 253 787 between the hours of 9am to 5pm 7 days per week or go to the SA Health website at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au or www.sa.gov.au/covid-19 . Please use the above contact details for any further information.
24.01.2022 VICTORIA CLOSES ITS BORDER TO SOUTH AUSTRALIA From midnight tonight, Victoria will close its border to South Australia for 48hrs, at which time this hard border closure will be replaced by a permit system. We are urgently awaiting a briefing and further detail regarding: - access to education, ... - the process for permit applications, - whether permit applications will be required if you an existing permit holder under the SA system or a duplicate system will be operated and other finer detail around earning an income, - providing financial relief for employees and businesses who can’t work, and - clarification around the process to cross the border for compassionate reasons or urgent health care or treatment. Please send me an email if you have specific challenges or questions you need to work though: [email protected]. From Daniel Andrews today: Under the hard border, only freight drivers and those with medical or emergency reasons, urgent animal welfare or as authorised by law will be able to pass through the border. The final details of the permit scheme will be provided as soon as possible but the reasons to enter Victoria from South Australia from Saturday night will include: if you are an emergency services worker or a worker providing essential services for agricultural work to receive medical care (including seeking coronavirus testing), obtain medical supplies or compassionate reasons to shop to obtain essential supplies More to come.
24.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Wednesday 2 September 2020 Victoria stats: 90 new cases 19,224 total cases 2,415 active cases (104)...Continue reading
23.01.2022 It’s time to take my mobile office down south through the beautiful Western Districts for next few days. Please drop by to say g’day, raise an issue you need assistance to solve, or share your great ideas on how we can make Lowan a better place to live, work, learn and do business. I’d love to see you! Thursday 8 April Coleraine Catching Pen Cafe 10:30am Casterton Herbert’s Bakery 11:45am... Dartmoor General Store 1:45pm Digby Hotel 2:45pm Merino General Store 3:15pm Hamilton Obsidian Room 5pm Friday 9 April Tarrington Cafe Catalpa 9am Penshurst Newsagency and Takeaway 10am Byaduk Town Hall 11am Branxholme Stalkers Bend General Store and Takeaway 12pm Cavendish Bridge Cafe 1:15pm Balmoral Community Store 2:30pm Harrow Post Cafe 3:30pm
23.01.2022 Ready to get behind the wheel? The State Government has just announced that VicRoads is now taking new bookings again for licence testing - Ps and Ls. Previously VicRoads was clearing a backlog of previously booked tests, and wasn’t expecting to take new bookings until November. So if you’re ready to get your learners or Ps, contact your local VicRoads office for appointments that will be scheduled from next Monday. ... Check here for details: www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
23.01.2022 CHANGES TO MANDATORY MASKS THIS WEEK The rules on masks have changed again. Under the State Government’s new restrictions, all Victorians must still wear a mask when in public, but it now has to be fitted and cover the nose and mouth. ... The Govt have updated the advice provided last week so that a fitted gaiter, snood or buff is now acceptable. This means face shields, bandanas, or scarves or loose snoods, buffs or neck gaiters (defined as a face and neck covering in a closed loop) on their own are out. Check out more detail here: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-masks-vic-covid-19 Daniel Andrews has also announced businesses in industries that are closed in Melbourne but open in regional areas (i.e. hospitality) must take reasonable steps to ensure that people they are serving are not from lockdown areas of Melbourne or face a hefty $10k fine, many times more than the individual travellers would be fined.
23.01.2022 On this day, at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the Great War ended. At 5 a.m. that morning, Germany, bereft of manpower and supplies and faced with imminent invasion, signed an armistice agreement with the Allies in a railroad car outside Compiegne, France. Today we remember the service and sacrifice of the tens of thousands of men and women who gave their all to give us the freedom, democracy and peaceful lifestyle we enjoy today as proud Australian...s. We will always remember them. Lest We Forget
23.01.2022 Daniel Andrews unprecedented power grab over your life and livelihood. No oversight. No accountability. After weeks of speculation, today we learned Labor will put legislation to State Parliament to extend the Governments State of Emergency powers. Theres no argument that public health must be the priority, but Daniel Andrews has used these powers to force our local businesses to close indefinitely. ... Hes stopped us getting out boating, hunting, camping, fishing, hiking, horse-riding, prospecting and 4wding. Hes stopped community sport and stopped our kids going to school. The Nationals wont support the Andrews Labor Government writing itself a blank cheque for this type of extraordinary powers over Victorians. #vicnats #community
20.01.2022 SA BORDER REOPENS TO VICTORIA AT MIDNIGHT! South Australia finally opens its border to Victoria at midnight tonight. **UPDATE FROM SA POLICE**... Low Community Transmission Zones Victoria has now been added to the Low Community Transmission Zone. This means there are no internal restrictions on people travelling to South Australia who have only travelled domestically in last 14 days. ***IMPORTANT- ALL people travelling to South Australia must still complete the Cross Border Travel Registration form here: https://forms.police.sa.gov.au//Ru/Form/CrossBorderTravel/ NOTE- Essential Traveller categories do not exist for people travelling from Low Community Transmission Zones. **SA POLICE UPDATE ENDS** SA contact tracing have acted exceptionally quickly to efficiently and effectively control the outbreak. There have been no new cases for 6 days or two cycles of this strain of COVID, so they’re looking clear. Well done SA!! You will still need a permit to register your travel into SA. My understanding is that the reasons for travel will be significantly eased - basically you just need to register your travel. The registration form and full details will be available at midnight here: https://www.police.sa.gov.au//cross-border-travel-applicat The Victorian border remains closed to South Australia. Let’s hope with SA’s excellent results this will be revised soon. CBC Permit holders may enter Victoria by showing their permit or drivers licence. Victorians seeking to reenter Victoria (or South Australians seeking to enter) must otherwise hold a Victorian Crossing Permit. You can apply for a Victorian Crossing Permit or see current hotspots in Adelaide here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/information-people-travelling-s PLEASE NOTE CBC PERMIT HOLDERS It is currently unclear if the CBC category will continue to be recognised under the revised SA Directions. If the CBC category is revoked you will need to apply for a Victorian Crossing Permit and SA travel permit/register your travel. I’ll post an update on this tomorrow.
20.01.2022 There are too many political decisions being made by city politicians based on what sounds best for the media grab for their target city audience rather than supporting country people, who havent had a case of coronavirus within 100km of them, and are the people that put food on their table and clothes in their back. Bring back common sense and support our farmers and cross border community members! Warning: swear jar.
19.01.2022 A great day on the road with my mobile office! A big thank you to everyone that turned out to share their ideas, concerns and just to say g’day. Today’s big issues: - Road conditions remains the most common issue raised - Rock climbing bans... - Natimuk lake weir progress still held up by DELWP, and need for burning off to mitigate fire risk - More mental health support needed - More post-natal support needed - Pensioners haven’t yet received bills for HACC services since HRCC outsourced the program in January, with locals concerned about ‘bill shock’ - Community concerns around Goroke sewerage rollout and cost - A tour of the newly renovated Goroke Pub, due to be opened in a few weeks so long as all the permits and licences come though - Finally got to see the magnificent Goroke silos, amazing! - Feedback around the review of school bus usage opening up to public passengers - Impact of border closures still being felt - and a few other localised issues and private matters Thanks again for the many people that turned out. We’ll follow everything up and get back to you with answers as soon as we can.
19.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Thursday 27 August 2020 Victoria stats: 113 new cases 18,714 total cases 3,308 active cases (180)...Continue reading
19.01.2022 Heres the new rules around Steps. For those who missed it Steps have replaced Stages, for no good reason aside from generally confusing everyone into thinking its great were now on Step 2 (its the same as Stage 3). No-one noticed any difference because there is none. Amazingly, even though our part of the state has inappropriately been lumped in the other basket along with everywhere else outside of Melbourne, yesterday we hit the target of <5 active cases on a rolling... average over 14 days! Great job! Its 5 today, but should be broken into much smaller regions to keep it relevant to local risk and wed smash the target. But it doesnt really matter at the moment, because until Daniel Andrews fixes his woeful contact tracing system were stuck on Step 2. The rolling average for unknown cases, also known as Government contact tracing failures, remains at 11 tonight (finally reported at 10pm) so we remain on Step 2 rather than Step 3. DHHS data here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/averages-easing-restrictions-co Weve done the right thing and all thats been asked of us. Its time Dan Andrews fixed his contact tracing system in return - its all were waiting for to minimise the terrible lockdown harms of mental, physical, social and financial trauma being inflicted unnecessarily on our local people.
19.01.2022 What are you looking forward to? This year has been extremely challenging. The experiences of 2019 seem a lifetime ago, replaced with restrictions and limitations. I cant wait for our communities and our country streets to bounce back to life with schools and sports grounds full of noise and businesses open and pumping.... With a version of the roadmap to be released on Sunday, I am looking to the future and invite you to tell me what youre looking forward to post Stage 3 (or 4) restrictions: https://vicn.at/lookingforward Personally, I very much miss seeing my friends and family celebrations, live music and being able to walk anywhere in the Grampians. As we dream about moving forward I send you positive vibes, together we can get through the challenges of 2020. If you feel I can be of assistance please contact me or my team on 53820097. Stay safe.
18.01.2022 Practice what you preach, Dan.
18.01.2022 New rules! Still no word on masks. Hints by Vic Premier of SA easing borders to regional Vic, but no announcements yet.
16.01.2022 HOME SCHOOLING OK, so its not easy for any of us, but there are some quiet moments in home schooling that are just lovely. This is my moment. The way my little man, Harvey (7) read a story and explained the pictures while he put his arm around Ella (13 weeks) was just adorable. I would still love school to go back! Theres been tears too, its not all warm fuzzy moments. I have utmost respect for our educators and the work they do. Its so hard for parents and students to ...do this each and every day in top of other work commitments, and I imagine its really hard for our educators to revert to teaching outside a classroom too. I worry Harvs is missing his mates and spending waaay too much time with Mum. But were halfway through it (I hope), and if nothing else weve learned what a great job our local schools do, and how amazing our kids are. Have you had any special moments with your kids during home learning? Cant wait for kids to get back? Given up? Worried for your VCE students? All feelings are ok of course, but its an extra load and worry that we not talking about much and really should. Take care parents, and be kind to yourselves. Look for those little moments that make it all worthwhile.
16.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Tuesday 25 August 2020 Victoria stats: 148 new cases 18,364 total cases 3,651 active cases (80)...Continue reading
16.01.2022 WDHS COVID-19 SURVEY Western District Health Service is seeking your input to the care and services they provide around COVID-19. If you live in the area, it would be great if you would take 5-10 minutes out of your day and have your day!... Thank you Message from the WDHS Community Liaison Team: COVID-19 is one of the biggest challenges of our time. Western District Health Service (WDHS) is inviting you to participate in an online community survey, to provide us with valuable insights into your needs and concerns, as the pandemic unfolds. The questions in the survey relate to: The challenges you may be facing as a result of social isolation Any health concerns you may have (related to the virus) The information you are seeking in relation to your concerns at this time Any other impacts that COVID-19 may be having on you personally Your reflections on what WDHS has done and could be doing in response to COVID-19. If you register your email address below, you will be asked to complete a survey now, which will take about five to ten minutes. You will also receive a follow-up survey by email every month for the next 6 months. You can opt out and unsubscribe at any time. Your responses will be anonymous and your email address will not be linked to your responses in any way. Your email address will never be used for any other purpose and will not be passed on to third parties. The information you provide will help us to understand your concerns during this critical time and we will regularly share the overall results with you and the community. If you have any questions about this survey, please contact WDHS Community Liaison on 5551 8540 or [email protected] If you are feeling anxious and need support, call the Beyond Blue COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 512 348 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. https://wdhs.secure.force.com/r/covid19
16.01.2022 THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS OFFERED TO HELP! We are working with the SA Govt to try to resolve your challenges, and also the media to help raise awareness and put pressure on both the SA and Victorian Premiers to sit down and fix this mess for the betterment of families on both sides of the border. -... Would you be happy to speak to the media and share your story about the impact of SAs hard border closure? Thank you to everyone who has contacted me to share the impacts of the hard border closure with SA. Were working hard to get common sense to prevail, and have had great support from the media in telling our stories. But we need your help. The media want to run yarns with first hand experiences of the border closure to help us to put pressure on the South Australian and Victorian Premiers to work together to support our cross border residents. If you or someone you know is happy to share your story, can you please let me know in the comments below, or send me an email: [email protected] I know were not naturally people that like to air our grievances publicly, but telling our story is the best way we can influence change. Journos want to help us, and it would be great to have the true voice of the people impacted by a city decision heard. Your assistance to add your voice would be so appreciated, and could be the difference between seeing some changes to the border rules sooner rather than later. Of course, Im happy to talk and support you through the process if youre a bit nervous! Thank you!
16.01.2022 Learning to swim is an essential life skill which relies on pools being open and swim schools able to operate. But swimming lessons remain on hold across all of Victoria, and wont be back until the very last Step on the COVID Roadmap - zero cases across all of Victoria for 14 days straight. I think we should get kids swimming lessons back ASAP and give us the best chance to save lives lost to drowning over the Summer. Since COVID-19, drownings in Victoria are 300% hig...her than the average for the same period over the past 5 years, with 12 recently recorded drownings. Just last year the Education Minister said, Every drowning death is one too many and nothing is more important than ensuring our kids are being taught this life saving skill, so why arent country kids able to be taught to swim as part of Step 3 when Swimming Victoria have demonstrated its safe to do so? We need tell to the Premier that our kids must get back in the pool and learning to swim to save kids in the water this Summer. Send a message to the Premier here: Vicn.at/messagetodan
15.01.2022 Take the time today to read the names of the women and children who’ve lost their life to domestic and family violence. These are real people who have now unnecessarily lost their life through domestic violence. This must stop. ... We must all take a stand against domestic violence. Call it out when you see it, get help if you don’t like the way you behave or treat your loved ones or feel uncomfortable about it the next day, or seek support to stop the cycle and keep you and your family safe. Thank you to the Wimmera Committee Against Family Violence for shining a light on domestic violence, and for all those who have added their voice to the campaign. To seek support: SafeSteps https://www.safesteps.org.au Or call 1800RESPECT
15.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Saturday 22 August 2020 Victoria stats: 182 new cases 18,029 total cases 4,293 active cases (128)...Continue reading
15.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Sunday 16 August 2020 Victoria stats: 279 new cases 7,671 active cases (204)...Continue reading
15.01.2022 This gorgeous weather makes for a perfect day to take the mobile office on the road, to catch up with a few people I haven’t seen for a while, and enjoy a trip around the Grampians. If you have something you’d like to raise with me, or a great idea on how we can make our region a better place to live, work, learn and operate a business, please drop by and say hello! 10:30am Dunkeld Izzy’s Cafe... 11:15am Glenthompson MJ’s Roadhouse 12:30pm Lake Bolac Information Centre 1:45pm Streatham Memorial Hall 2:45pm Willaura Bakery 3:45pm Maroona Hotel See more
15.01.2022 RULES FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES AROUND MELBOURNE PATRONS AND CUSTOMERS There has been much confusion in regional centres about which businesses must be part of the screening and contact detail requirements. Put simply, every non-essential retail business must check photo identification and record the name, phone number and postcode of residence of every customer who enters their shop.... If a business is closed in Melbourne, then it is also closed to Melbourne people who come into regional Victoria. If a customer refuses to produce photo ID on request; you can ask them to fill out a declaration for accessing regional business (see the link below) the onus is on the store owner/manager to ensure this is done. If a customer then refuses to fill out the declaration, you must not serve them and must ask them to leave your store immediately. Call the Police if you require assistance - please don’t take matters into your own hands. Unfortunately this information is unclear on the DHHS website, but I have had this clarified through the relevant departments. The following quotes are from a Victorian government media release: To date, businesses that are currently closed in Melbourne but are open in regional Victoria have been asked to check the addresses of their customers when taking bookings. From midnight tonight, this requirement will be made even stronger, with businesses who consciously fail to check their customers are not from metropolitan Melbourne facing fines of up to $9913. Regional businesses who do the right thing but are misled by someone intent on breaking the rules will not be fined under the changes. Instead, individuals found deliberately ignoring the restrictions will risk a fine of $1652. Melbournians who are found in regional Victoria without a valid reason face fines of up to $4957. Read the full release at: premier.vic.gov.au/extra-testing-requirements-we-move-covid Find the business declaration template here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au//Declaration%20for%20accessing
14.01.2022 Were officially COVID free! Great job! You did all that was asked of you - even when it didnt make sense or seemed contradictory - and we got there. Youre all amazing. Now weve met the criteria theres no reason left why we shouldnt have our kids back to school for week 1 of term 4, and reopen all our businesses this week (with distancing and gathering rules as required). ... Enjoy the rain!
13.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Friday 28 August 2020 Victoria stats: 113 new cases 18,822 total cases 3,141 active cases (167)...Continue reading
13.01.2022 Today marks 75 years since the end of the Second World War. It is a day to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the some one million Australians who served and say a simple, thank you for your service. While we cant join together today to formally recognise their service, we can take a moment out of our day to privately remember those who served our great country. Thank you. ... On the left in this photo is my (Great) Uncle Gregor, Captain James Charles Gregor Kealy, who lived in Apsley after he returned from his service in WW2 as a member of Headquarters, 21st Australian Infantry Brigade. The photo was taken on 20 September 1943 at Nadzab, Papua New Guinea, just two weeks after the Nadzab airstrip was captured by Australian combat troops in the first successful airborne operation of the Pacific War. Its also days after the capture of Lae, a key base for the Japanese at the time. You can read more about the capture of Lae here: https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/E84347 Uncle Gregor was Mentioned in Dispatches as part of his service at this time, an Award which our family is very proud of, but we are also incredibly thankful for his service and the service of his fellow troops. Lest we forget.
13.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Monday 17 August 2020 Victoria stats: 282 new cases 17,027 total cases 7,474 active cases (197)...Continue reading
13.01.2022 NEW RULES! COVID UPDATE FOR REGIONAL VIC Effective midnight Tuesday: Religious gatherings - 20ppl inside, 50 outside Indoor pools - max. 20ppl... Indoor sport go ahead for under 18s Food courts open Live music outdoors School graduations ceremonies Indoor gyms - max. 20ppl, 10 per space, 1 per 8sq/m No word on easing of mask wearing in isolated areas as the weather warms up. More details to come once the full Directions are published. Please call or email my office if you have any specific questions or situations where you would like guidance as comments easily get lost on FB: 53820097 or [email protected] Stay safe and well. Also, congrats and well done Tigers, great game Geelong, farewell Gaz - a champion of the game - and bring back the arvo GF!
12.01.2022 Today is RU OK Day. Its different this year, because for the most part, we are not OK. By 9am this morning Id already been contacted about a suicide, three incomplete suicides, an overdose, serious depression, domestic violence involving physical violence to a woman and their children, ice addiction, children with depression and suicidal ideations while theyre home schooled and isolated from their friends, and many people telling me theyve lost hope of their business eve...r opening its doors again. I cannot state strongly enough how much harm is being done to our people and communities caused by Daniel Andrews lockdowns. Its killing and harming far more people than its saving. I am angry, frustrated and sad that despite experts in mental health, domestic violence and general medicine publicly raising their concerns about lockdown harms, Daniel Andrews will not accept we can and should do it better. He says he doesnt want lockdowns for a day longer than necessary, but then he locks down vast areas of rural Victoria with no active cases, while setting the seemingly impossible benchmark to end lockdowns of zero cases for two weeks across the entire state. It is little wonder people are losing hope. For everyone in our community who is struggling with the trauma of lockdowns, I care about you and I understand. You have my support, Im fighting for you and I believe in you and your worth. If you or someone you know is struggling to find hope in life, please reach out. You are not alone. We will get through this together. x
12.01.2022 BACKYARD BUCKET LIST Kaniva’s silo artwork is complete. Beautiful.
12.01.2022 VICTORIAN BORDER CROSSING PERMITS NOW ONLINE After a lengthy delay, Victorian border crossing permits are finally available online. People who have only travelled in the green zone (regional SA), or orange zone (metro Adelaide excluding known hotspots - listed on the website), will be granted a permit and allowed to travel into Victoria.... Those that have travelled to a known hotspot in Adelaide - the red zone - will not be permitted to cross the border unless granted an exemption by the Chief Health Officer. Unfortunately the time period of when you visited these locations is not specified on the webpage. IMPORTANT: You do not need a second permit if you already hold a current Cross Border Community permit issued by SA. You can just show you drivers licence as proof of residence upon entry to Victoria. APPLY HERE: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/south-australian-border-
12.01.2022 My mobile office is heading out to the beautiful West Wimmera today. I won’t have time for a ski, but have plenty of time for you. If you have a state government issue you’d like assistance to resolve, a great idea to help get off the ground, or would like to share something impressive that is happening in your community, I’d love to hear from you! Natimuk Newsagency 9:30am... Goroke IGA XPress 10:30am Apsley Post Office 11:30am Edenhope Takeaway 12:30pm Dergholm Menzies Hotel 2:00pm See more
12.01.2022 MASKS NO LONGER REQUIRED OUTSIDE Today Victoria is moving to the last step of Covid-19 restrictions with considerably more freedom now allowed - most particularly with respect to masks. Here’s a summary of what changes from 11.59pm tonight: Masks no longer compulsory outside, but must be carried and worn inside any venue, including public transport, and when in crowded situations outside (such as at a busy market or in a queue)... Up to 15 people allowed to visit your home each day - infants not included in the 15 cap. Can be 10 for lunch, 5 for dinner, for example. Up to 50 people allowed to gather outside in a group in a public place, such as the beach or a park Up to 150 people allowed at weddings, funerals and religious ceremonies indoors, 300 for religious ceremonies outdoors For community sport, contact and non-contact sport can resume for adults and children with: 150 people inside in group sizes up to 20 500 outdoors with groups of up to 50 For work, business and hospitality: Small venues (under 200sqm) such as cafes move to a density quotient of 1 person per 2 square metres, to a maximum of 50. QR codes must be used Large venues remain at 1 per 4sqm but the cap increases to 150 inside and total of 300 (inside and out) Cinemas, galleries and museums up to 150 people inside From November 30, 25% of workers can return to onsite work, but not the public sector And in good news for Christmas: From 13 December, up to 30 people allowed at your home There are more changes for some industry sectors and events which you can find in the link here: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au//221120%20-%20Last%20Step%2
12.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Sunday 23 August 2020 Victoria stats: 208 new cases 18,231 total cases 4,012 active cases (281)...Continue reading
12.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Thursday 13 August 2020 Victoria stats: 278 new cases 7,866 active cases (11)...Continue reading
10.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Friday 14 August 2020 Victoria stats: 372 new cases 7,877 active cases (11)...Continue reading
10.01.2022 CROSS BORDER COMMUNITY MEMBER UPDATE From midnight tonight, Cross Border Community Members (people who live within 70km of the border on either side) are now no longer required to submit to COVID-19 testing. This is a small but important step toward easing SA’s border restrictions, and importantly will be welcomed by many cross border residents who have been tested up to a dozen times with no positive cases detected. ... I will continue to work with representatives on both sides of the border to work through other impractical restrictions so that a safe but workable solution can be achieved. It is acknowledged that many restrictions still apply, but they are critical in dealing with the spread of COVID-19. All existing directions, frequently asked questions and other information can be found here: https://www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/emergency-declarations If you require further information you can call the SA COVID-19 Information Line on 1800 253 787 between the hours of 9am to 5pm 7 days per week or go to the SA Health website at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au or www.sa.gov.au/covid-19
10.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Friday 21 August 2020 Victoria stats: 179 new cases 17,852 total cases 4,421 active cases (443)...Continue reading
09.01.2022 SUMMER COVID RESTRICTIONS Today the Premier has announced changes to restrictions to apply at least until the end of January. Despite 37 days of zero cases, masks will still be required in some indoor settings. Here’s a summary of what changes from 11.59pm tonight:... Masks still must be carried but now only mandatory on public transport, taxis/rideshare, and in certain indoor crowded spaces such as shopping centres, supermarkets, and department, furniture, hardware and electronic stores Up to 30 people allowed to visit your home in a day Up to 100 people allowed to gather outside in a group in a public place, such as the beach or a park No caps at weddings, funerals and religious ceremonies indoors. 1 person per 2sqm for venues using electronic record keeping (QR codes), 1 per 4sqm otherwise. 30 person cap remains for home weddings/funerals Dancing allowed, 1 person per 4sqm, up to 50 people Hospitality density requirement reduced to 1 person per 2sqm with QR code recording, no density requirement for first 25 patrons. No seating requirements Density requirement for indoor gyms reduced to 1 person per 4sqm. Gym and exercise classes up to 50 From January 11: 50% of workers can return to onsite work, and 25% for Victorian public sector There are more changes for some industry sectors and events which you can find in the link here: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au//201206%20-%20COVIDSafe%20S
09.01.2022 Yes! The SA border will finally be reopened to all Victorians, effective from midnight 1 December 2020. No more permits for cross border residents. No more separation of loved ones. No more exclusion from medical services, builders, suppliers, sporting clubs and friends. ... I am sure some people will have changed their shopping habits and business relationships to spend more money and time in Victoria for good. Some Victorians won’t forget how they’ve been treated in SA and won’t go back. Others will put it all behind them and just be happy to get their freedom back! Whatever you choose to do, let’s be thankful that we again have a choice. Congratulations and thank you to all that have helped to lobby for fairness, for better communication between the Vic and SA Governments, and who have shared their stories to gain broad community support. Well done!
09.01.2022 VIC/SA PERMIT UPDATE: 2100hrs, Saturday 21 November 2020 Existing SA issued cross border community permits will be accepted. You are exempt from requiring a permit to enter Victoria from SA if you are receiving or providing emergency medical care, providing or receiving emergency services or residing on a property that extends across both South Australia and Victoria. ... If you’ve been to SA high risk exposure site you must not enter Victoria unless an exemption has been issued by the Victorian CHO. It’s still not clear what the permit application process will be for people who don’t have an SA CBC permit and haven’t been to a high risk exposure site in SA. I will provide an update if or when this info is available. More info here: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/border-closures
09.01.2022 The rain is great, just not all at once! With floods across our region it’s important to take care, especially along the Glenelg and other rivers and waterways during this wet and wild weather. Call SES if you need emergency support on 132500, and please keep out of flood waters whether driving or on foot. It’s just too dangerous. ... Keep up to date on flood warnings and advice on the Vic Emergency app, or the website: https://emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/ You also keep an eye on local Council FB Pages and websites for current local information and supports available - they’re doing a great job. Southern Grampians Shire Council Glenelg Shire Council Stay safe.
09.01.2022 After a week of being told restrictions will be eased very soon, today Regional Victoria finally got the confirmation weve all been waiting for - we are moving to Step 3 from 11.59pm Wednesday night. This means gatherings of up to 10 people outdoors (public places, not at home) and up to 5 visitors from one other household to your home are now allowed, but weddings, funerals and religious gatherings remain severely restricted. Our kids will go back to school in Term 4, b...ut not until week 2. All retail businesses can reopen, including beauty and indoor hospitality, both sectors rewarded after strongly questioning why they were excluded when similar interactions were allowed. Theres no doubt many business will still struggle, particularly in hospitality which is limited to mainly outdoor service. Of most concern to me today was the Premier remarking that the SA Premier has flagged concerns that an outbreak in the current huge region of Regional Victoria could put cross-border travel concessions at risk, and so smaller regions may need to be considered in the future. My plea to the Premier is to be a step ahead, to cut Regional Victoria into smaller regions immediately so that our cross border community residents have some security that the border wont be slammed shut again. I dont think thats too much to ask. What remains banned that you think should be opened up for consistency? Swimming lessons, drivers licence testing and school returning in week one of term 4 are both issues raised frequently with me that would fit this inconsistent approach to the rules. Anything else? As always, if theres an issue we can help with, please email [email protected] as messages and comments easily get lost on FB.
08.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Monday 24 August 2020 Victoria stats: 116 new cases 18,330 total cases 3,731 active cases (281)...Continue reading
08.01.2022 SA ENDS LOCKDOWN EARLY In breaking news, SA contact tracers have attained new information and all COVID cases can now be linked to a known source. Again today, there are no new cases of unknown source in SA. Given this new information, the SA Govt have promptly revised their 6 day lockdown, which will now END AT MIDNIGHT SATURDAY, 2 days earlier than originally scheduled. Other restrictions have been eased immediately, including exercising and rules around family groups. ... In light of this new information, common sense says that Daniel Andrews must act with the same haste as the SA Govt and immediately review and reverse his decision to close the Victoria border with SA, and cease plans for a permit system due to be implemented midnight Saturday. Common sense must prevail.
08.01.2022 CROSS BORDER UPDATE Breaking news out of SA, via The Age: The [SA Transition] committee also decided to ease restrictions with Victoria, allowing people to relocate from Victoria to South Australia (for example when moving house or commencing term four at boarding school) and drive through South Australia to travel between Victoria and Western Australia without needing to apply for an exemption.... Victorians relocating to South Australia will still need to quarantine for 14 days on arrival. People living in the 70km border bubble between Victoria and South Australia are now allowed to cross the border for any purpose provided they remain within the bubble region. More details to come. Follow this Page for updates.
08.01.2022 Regional Victorians have shown great resolve and resilience in their ability to lead the way in suppressing the virus - for this, I say thank you. The Liberals and Nationals have launched our plan for Victoria's recovery. This is not a plan for the next election, because Victorian's simply can't afford to wait that long. We are presented with a unique opportunity where we can reshape our state, rebuild businesses and industries, and restore Victoria as the jewel in Australia...’s economic crown. Our plan breathes new life into Victoria's economy, offering support for local businesses, families and our communities. To look at our #backtowork plan, visit our website: https://vic.nationals.org.au/back-to-work-and-back-in-busi/
07.01.2022 NEW INFORMATION AVAILABLE - PLEASE CHECK MY FB PAGE FOR THE FULL UPDATE VICTORIAN ENTRY PERMITS With just over 7 hours until you are mandated to hold a permit to enter Victoria from SA, there is still NO PERMIT INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. ... It’s hard to believe why a permit system wasn’t ready to go when the Premier says ‘we’ve seen this coming for a long time’. Where’s the preparedness - we’ve had six months or more to sort this out. Further, if a permit system is seen as necessary, why isn’t the SA CBC permit system honoured to avoid duplication and unnecessary stress on cross border residents? EDIT: DHHS have now updated their website to state they WILL honour the SA CBC permits to allow Victorian CBC permit holders to re-enter Victoria. A small win late in the day, but will be a huge relief for so many people. Or even more to the point, why hasn’t the Victorian border closure been revised given SA has controlled the spread of the virus with no new unknown cases for over 2 reproductive cycles (6 days), resulting in the SA lockdown ending early at midnight tonight. In any case, Daniel Andrews is sticking by the need for a permit to enter Victoria, he just hasn’t provided how that will happen yet. This makes it very stressful for harvest, shearing, and access to education, healthcare, and groceries when you rely on crossing the border for your supplies and services. When permit information is published, it will be available either here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/information-people-travelling-s Or here: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/border-closures Stay safe and well. Please email me if we can support you with urgent approval to cross the border: [email protected]
06.01.2022 40km SA/VIC CBC TRAVEL ZONE TO BE REINSTATED FRIDAY Great news with the SA Govt announcing Cross Border Community rules will change on Friday, allowing cross border residents to return to work, go to school, see their doctor and get their essential goods and services over the border. Great work everyone for telling their story and working together to have our voice heard! ... I know that wont solve all problems, but its certainly a step in the right direction. More detail to come, and will share when available. Screenshot from the Adelaide Advertiser: https://www.google.com.au//eda8d02669ea22f46019da318be39169
06.01.2022 Regional Victorias average daily case rate has dropped below the threshold to move to Step 3. Not bad considering weve been wrongly thrown in to an other basket along with everywhere else outside of Melbourne. But until the average cases with an unknown source is reduced to 0 over the 14 previous days we will remain at Step 2, which is basically the old Stage 3. Our ability to support peoples mental and physical health needs, support social and emotional wellbeing, to op...en more businesses, meet with friends and family, and enjoy special celebrations and gatherings is now totally beholden to Victorias contact tracing system, today damned as WOEFUL by a number of esteemed medical experts. Victorias first COVID case was diagnosed in January. In February, Victoria was offered the same premium contact tracing system that NSW has been using extremely effectively. Today, in September, Victoria is finally following NSWs strong lead and sending a team up there to learn about contact tracing and finally adopt the software package we could and should have had seven long months ago. Lets hope they rapidly catch up on lost ground before any more lives and livelihoods are lost to COVID and COVID lockdown harms.
06.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Thursday 3 September 2020 Victoria stats: 112 new cases 19,336 total cases 2,295 active cases (120)...Continue reading
06.01.2022 COVID UPDATE 6 SEPTEMBER 2020 No new cases across the Lowan electorate today, around 1/6 of the state. There remains three active cases in Horsham Rural City Council, and zero active cases anywhere else in the electorate or other seven LGAs that are fully or partially within the Lowan electorate. I wish the three individuals who have tested positive a full recovery and thank them for isolating. REGIONAL REOPENING ROADMAP... A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF CHANGES FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA This post is to provide some factual information - I will leave the commentary until later, but the fact the Premier didnt have his notes for regional Vic speaks volumes. There will be a four-step process out of the current lockdowns, with regional Victoria effectively skipping step one and moving to step two next Sunday. The new rules for regional Victoria from next Sunday, 13 September at 11.59 pm will be be: Only leave home for 4 reasons: school or work (if these can not be done from home), care or caregiving, to purchase essentials, exercise Public gatherings: up to 5 people from a maximum of 2 households can meet outdoors for social interaction (infants under 12 months of age are not included in the cap) Visitors to the home: "Single person bubble" 1 nominated visitor if living alone/single parent (all children under 18) Childcare is open to all children Schools return to onsite learning from Term 4 with safety measures Outdoor exercise and recreation allowed Restaurants and cafes open for takeaway and delivery only Retail: open, with density and other restrictions, hairdressing open When will regional Victoria move to the Third Step? Subject to public health advice, the Third Step can start when: daily average number of cases in the last 14 days in regional Victoria is less than 5 there are less than 0 cases in regional Victoria with an unknown source in the last 14 days For the third and fourth steps, more information is available at this link: https://www.vic.gov.au/restrictions-roadmap-regional-victor As always, feel free to email me any questions to [email protected]
06.01.2022 BACKYARD BUCKET LIST A lot of things have changed in 2020, including Tarrington’s annual Lanternenfest and German festival being cancelled, but their awesome haybale art competition is still on! Such an impressive display! Well done to the Tarrington community for the awesome effort they put into this event each and every year. ... If you make the drive to Tarrington, make sure you don’t stick to the highway as there are plenty of clever and funny haybales on the side roads too. Here’s a sample, but there’s so many more to see. Which haybale gets your vote?
05.01.2022 EMMA’S MOBILE OFFICE IS BACK ON THE ROAD It’s so good to get into the electorate again and hear first hand from our awesome locals on how we can build a better future for our region. I have a very little helper on board today - yes, I’m a politician that brings her own baby to kiss. ... Casterton is already checked off the list, and it was lovely to catch up with recently re-elected Councillor Karen Stephens and many other friendly faces. The next stop is Coleraine Post Office in the next few minutes, and then I’ll finish the day under the Rotunda in the Hamilton Botanic Gardens at 2:30pm. Hope to see you soon!
05.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Wednesday 26 August 2020 Victoria stats: 149 new cases 18,608 total cases 3,488 active cases (163)...Continue reading
05.01.2022 Dan says masks are here to stay for the foreseeable future - at least to the end of the year and likely into next year. Yes, we need to wear masks. But some reminders, as I know this is causing,...Continue reading
05.01.2022 Random Acts Of Kindness My beautiful cousin, Jacky, has an amazing garden. During COVID lockdowns shes been leaving gorgeous bouquets at her mailbox offered free for anyone needing some love. All I ask in return is if you can check in on your friends to make sure they are doing ok xx. So kind and generous! I received this gorgeous bunch from Jacky today, and they have brightened my life so much. Thank you Jacky! xxx... It got me thinking, whats something lovely youve seen, given or received during the lockdowns that has put a smile on your face and a glow in your heart? There have been so many random acts of kindness over the past months, lets share the lovely highlights this weekend to show how kind we all are during lockdowns, as a reminder to keep our healthy and caring habits for when lives get back to normal.
04.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Friday 4 September 2020 Its Friday, so rather than chanting out the numbers again lets change the discussion to something positive, like this word map of what people are looking forward to doing when restrictions get lifted. Just reading this warms my heart - were back to seeing whats really important in life, our family and friends. Lets not forget this too quickly when restrictions are lifted. ...Continue reading
03.01.2022 ROAD TRIP BUCKET LIST Seeing an opportunity for quick and COVID safe takeaway coffee, Isobel Cleary of Casterton has opened up a pop up shop in the former ‘Say Grace’ premises, aptly named ‘The Window’. Great to see a young local seeing a business opportunity and running with it. Good luck Isobel! Casterton is a lovely community for a day trip or longer stay. Beautiful landscapes, great food and hospitality, and amazing treasures too like the Australian Kelpie Centre - Australia’s only museum dedicated to the Kelpie. Well worth adding to your road trip bucket list.
03.01.2022 Congratulations to Horsham College debutantes and partners for the amazing way you presented yourselves tonight. You’ve all put an enormous amount of work into tonight, and you’ve achieved great success. Remember this moment with pride, hold on to that feeling of seeing how proud of you your family and friends are, and know that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.
02.01.2022 Today regional Victoria moves to step 2 of the roadmap to easing restrictions. Heres a summary of what this means: Only leave home for 4 reasons: school or work (if these can not be done from home), care or caregiving, to purchase essentials, exercise Public gatherings: up to 5 people from a maximum of 2 households can meet outdoors for social interaction (infants under 12 months of age are not included in the cap) ... Visitors to the home still not allowed except for the "Single person bubble": 1 nominated visitor if living alone/single parent (all children under 18) - no forms or official nomination required Childcare is open to all children Schools return to onsite learning from Term 4 with safety measures - but not till October 12. Check with your school for actual dates. The following are unchanged in step 2: Masks remains for now Outdoor exercise and recreation allowed - still no camping or overnight stays away Restaurants and cafes open for takeaway and delivery only Retail: open, with density and other restrictions, hairdressing open (some beauty services will now be allowed to reopen at step 3) The numbers are tracking well for a move to step three for regional Victoria but we are reliant on contact tracing - as at today there are still seven cases in regional Victoria from an unknown source, and we need to get to zero to go to step three. More details on the next step can be found here: https://www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-reopening-roadm The government today also announced a $3billion package of support for business, including hospitality businesses. While Id much rather see our regional businesses able to re-open, the support includes: A third round of the Business Support Fund, offering cash grants of $10,000 to $20,000 for small and medium businesses Cash grants of $10,000 to $30,000 for hospitality businesses through the Licenced Venue Fund. Liquor licence fees will be waived for 2021 A full-year payroll tax deferral for businesses with a payroll up to $10m. Grants of up to $20,000 for business groups such as chambers of commerce to help local business adapt Support for businesses to adapt to a new Covid normal world, including access to digital platforms and training The waiver of various fees and charges, some commercial and industrial stamp duty rebates in regional areas, and support for alpine businesses given the cancelled snow season. No announcement of support for sole traders, although a package has been flagged to be announced in coming days. Full details are available here: https://www.business.vic.gov.au//business-survival-and-ada
02.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Saturday 15 August 2020 Victoria stats: 303 new cases 7,875 active cases (2)...Continue reading
02.01.2022 MOBILE OFFICE WITH A VIEW I’m in Halls Gap near the Stoney Creek Stores this morning, and I think it has to be one the loveliest places to have a mobile office! Gorgeous views of the Grampians, the verge of Stoney Creek is green and lush, and the vanilla milkshake from Coolas Ice Creamery is amazing! I’ll be here for a bit longer, then off to Lake Bolac Information Centre at 1:30pm. Everyone is very welcome to come and say hello and tell me what you think our electorate needs to make it a better place to live and work - although all seems quite perfect today!
01.01.2022 COVID UPDATE Thursday 20 August 2020 Victoria stats: 240 new cases 17,683 total cases 4,864 active cases (2,291)...Continue reading
