Queensland Government announces indoor sporting events and theatres can now operate at 100% capacity

The Queensland Government has announced the relaxation of a number of restrictions today, allowing for increased capacity crowds at stadiums and ticketed venues along with no limits for people gathering in public spaces.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced that Queensland would enter Stage 3 of the Unite and Recover Roadmap at 4pm today.

Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Yvette D’Ath advised “Stage 3 allows for 100% capacity for stadiums, however masks must be worn at all times, except when eating or drinking.

“Likewise, ticketed venues with allocated seating, like indoor sporting events and theatres, can operate at 100% capacity. All restrictions are removed for community sport.”

Premier Palaszczuk noted “this is a milestone every Queenslander should be proud of. To be able to lift so many restrictions is testament to the way we have handled this pandemic, including the most recent cluster.

“As of this afternoon, you will be able to host up to 100 people at your home.

“Cafés, pubs and restaurants can now have one person per 2m² or 100% capacity if they are ticketed and seated. You no longer need to be seated when eating and drinking.

“One person per 2m² or 200 people, or 100% allocated seated and ticketed capacity (whichever is greater) will now be allowed at funerals and weddings. And I’m delighted to announce that all wedding guests can dance as long as they comply with the one person per 2m² rule.

“We still need to be mindful of the risk of COVID-19 incursions from other states, but we should also make the most of our own fortunate circumstances.”

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said face masks would continue to play an important role in keeping Queenslanders safe, especially in the south-east corner.

“I have no doubt masks were critical in preventing more cases during the Indooroopilly cluster,” Dr Young said.

“Given there are very serious COVID-19 risks in other states, south-east Queenslanders are required to continue carrying a face mask with them at all times unless they have a lawful reason not to. They must also be worn on public transport and in ride-shares and indoors, unless you can stay at least 1.5m away from other people.

“In south-east Queensland, masks must be worn by teachers and staff at all schools, and students at high schools.

“For the rest of Queensland, we encourage everyone to carry a mask and wear it if they cannot physically distance from other people.”

Image: Queensland Country Bank Stadium opening night courtesy of Blair Hughes.