Queensland Government says theme parks, indoor gyms, fitness centres and sports centres 'must close'

The Queensland Government has issued new advice on business closures and restrictions that it hopes will prevent the spread of Coronavirus, saying that theme parks, indoor gyms, fitness centres, sports centres and other venues must close.

Significantly, which became effective from 12 pm, Monday 23rd March, does not mention aquatic centres or outdoor fitness activities.

The non-essential businesses required to stop operating or operate under new restrictions, that the Queensland Government says "must close" are:

• Indoor Gyms, fitness centres and sporting centres 
• Theme parks 
• Cinemas 
• Gambling venues including casinos, nightclubs theatres and entertainment venues of any kind 
• Registered and licensed clubs, licensed premises in hotels, including sporting clubs 
• Places where persons congregate for the purpose of worship or fellowship, including weddings, and baptisms 

Other restrictions apply funerals along with restaurants, cafes, fast-food outlets, food courts (together retail food services) which are restricted to take away or hotel room service.

Retail food services that continue to operate must follow the below provisions:

• Social distancing, including keeping 1.5 metres between people must be accommodated, implemented and monitored by employees or contractors of the retail food service provider
• Gathering for the purposes of ordering or collecting must not exceed one person per 4 square metres
• The retail food service provider may only operate to the extent they are not promoting or facilitating persons consuming takeaway food or drink on or adjacent to their premises

The new orders delivered by Queensland’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Jeannette Young under the Public Health Act 2005 (Qld) came into effect as of noon yesterday.

Image: An outdoor gym in Brisbane.