Queensland Government launches pop-up vaccination clinics at sports clubs, theme parks and in entertainment precincts

With the state recording zero locally acquired COVID-19 cases and with more than 60% of its population over 16 now fully vaccinated, the Queensland Government has announced that, as of next weekend, new pop-up vaccination clinics will open at Surf Life Saving Clubs, theme parks, local sports clubs and facilities, resorts, showgrounds, PCYCs, schools, shopping centres and entertainment precincts.

Advising that the new sites will be part of the vaccination push to offer pop-up vaccination clinics where people live, work, learn, shop and play, Queensland Deputy Premier, Steven Miles today advised “we know there is not a one size fits all approach to get people vaccinated, and we need to offer various options and locations as the rollout progresses to reach as much of the community as possible.

“We are making vaccination as easy and convenient as possible, and will continue to target people for vaccination where they are already are.

“Over the people’s long weekend locations such as our beaches and theme parks will have a high number of people coming through, so they are a good option to encourage opportunistic vaccinations.

“This long weekend will be the start of a week long vaccination blitz targeting tourist locations across the state.

“We know many Queenslanders are travelling across this great state currently – and we want to offer them opportunities to get vaccinated in places they frequent while on holidays and we’re currently investigating suitable locations.”

Pop up clinics will be located at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Cairns Convention Centre, Caloundra Indoor Sports Stadium, Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Dreamworld, Aussie World, Australia Zoo and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary from Friday 29th to Sunday 31st October.

Over 20 Surf Life Saving Clubs from Cairns to Coolangatta will also have clinics operating over the weekend.

Queensland Minister for Health Yvette D’Ath said time was running out for people to get vaccinated ahead of borders opening in mid-December, adding “COVID-19 is coming to Queensland and our best protection against the virus is vaccination.

“Queenslanders are coming forward in ever growing numbers to get vaccinated and we’re providing more and more locations to get the vaccine.

“If you want to protect yourself and your loved ones, you can combine getting the vaccine with a visit to the beach, theme park or entertainment venue.

“It’s easy because all you need to do is walk in and you’ll get a free and safe vaccine that offers a high level of protection.

“There’s no reason not to come forward, so step up to get vaccinated because that’s the key to recovery, as we continue to re-open the Queensland economy.

“Remember it takes at least five weeks from your first dose to achieve maximum protection from the vaccine.”

Deputy Premier Miles said the decision to work with Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) and theme parks and other tourism venues was an extension of the Queensland Government’s successful vaccine strategy.

He added “we’ve seen how well Queenslanders have embraced the idea of pop-up vaccination clinics at schools, Bunnings stores, sporting events and parks, so I know these new clinics will be a huge success.

“Thank you to all the Surf Life Saving clubs and businesses who are supporting Queensland’s vaccination efforts.

“So next weekend remember to ‘Slip, Slop, Slap and Jab’.”

SLSQ Chief Executive, Dave Whimpey said his organisation was keen to do their part to support the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, noting “Surf Life Saving Queensland is proud to partner with the Queensland Government on this fantastic initiative

“Our clubs are community hubs across Queensland and we welcome anyone and everyone who is eligible to come down over the weekend to be vaccinated.

“This is the community’s chance to be a lifesaver by getting a vaccine.”

Significantly no aquatic centres or fitness clubs have been included as locations.

All Queensland Health clinics accept both walk-ins and bookings.

Click here for the full list of vaccination locations and opening times on the Queensland Health vaccination location webpage.

Image: Warner Bros. Movie World will be among locations hosting pop-up vaccination clinics from Friday 29th to Sunday 31st October.