By Romy Stephens
Yarra Ranges Shire will join other metropolitan Melbourne regions and Mitchell Shire in another Covid-19 lockdown period from midnight 8 July.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced on 7 July that Stage 3 restrictions would be reinforced for six weeks across these regions.
It comes after Victoria recorded a further 191 cases of Covid-19 on 7 July, with 37 cases linked to outbreaks and 154 under investigation.
“It’s clear we are on the cusp of our second wave and we cannot let this virus cut through our communities,” Mr Andrews said.
“For six weeks, and if you live in these areas, there’ll be only four reasons to leave your home.
“Shopping for food and essential items. Care and caregiving. Daily exercise. Work and study – if you can’t do it from home.”
The shires of Yarra Ranges, Cardinia, Nillumbik and Knox were listed as regions included within the metropolitan Melbourne areas in lockdown.
Yarra Ranges currently has two active Covid-19 cases (28 in total), Cardinia has zero (22 in total), Nillumbik has one (28 in total) and Knox has four (27 in total).
The lockdown will see local restaurants and cafes return to takeaway and delivery services only, beauty and personal services close, entertainment and cultural venues close and local sport stop.
All Year 11 and Year 12 students in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire will go back to school for Term 3 as planned, along with special schools.
For students Prep to Year 10, school holidays will be extended by one week, with the potential for remote learning to return.
