EASING RESTRICTIONS AND BIAV 'WISHLIST'
As the COVID case numbers continue to improve, and today (20/10), the Premier hinted at further easing this Sunday, BIAV continues to push for two major things to improve ASAP.
We will advise you as soon as anything is known, however, meanwhile, these two main things are –
The distance limitation, now 25km, continues to be massively problematic for boaters. Many people are unfairly disadvantaged by this and still cannot take part in their exercise. We are urging that this be addressed and that boaters be required to use the nearest ramp/marina to home that is available to them, even if it is beyond 25km. This worked well after the previous lockdown and we have asked that it be re-instated. BIAV is also asking that the 25km measure refers to the distance from the boater’s home to the point of access to the water, i.e. not to include the on-water component.
An exemption for Outdoor, By appointment, One-at-a-time, COVIDsafe boat inspections are sought. There are buyers that have done all of the on-line related research. There are dealerships that have the stock. They just need a final COVIDsafe inspection. This COVIDsafe activity would involve very limited people movement, will be COVIDsafe and will have a very high reward v risk ratio.
We await government updates on these matters and will keep you posted.
Please also note the latest DHHS advice with regard to exercise, which as you know, covers all forms of boating as well as fishing. Click here to view.
Included at the link is this important wording -
You can now travel up to 25 km from your home or permitted workplace within metropolitan Melbourne. This replaces the 5km rule. Travel to regional Victoria is still only allowed for permitted purposes even if this is within 25 kms. This means you cannot travel into regional Victoria for exercise or recreation.
You can leave home for any period of time to exercise or see friends and family outdoors. This replaces the two hour limit on these activities. There are no limits on the number of times you can leave home.
You can meet in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place to socialise (children under 12 months of age not included in the limit). An outdoor public place means areas accessible to everyone, including local parks and beaches. This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.
You can exercise in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place (personal training is limited to two people plus the trainer). This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.