Emma Pritchard

When Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan rolled up his sleeve and received his first dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine earlier this month, he had one important message for the local community.

“I am encouraging everyone to get vaccinated when they are eligible to do so,” he said.

“Doing this means we will all get back to normal as soon as possible. 

“While things are good in Australia, the pandemic is still raging in many other countries.

“Vaccinations are important to protect our community from the most severe effects of the coronavirus.”

Many Clarence Valley residents have already received their first Covid-19 vaccines at the established vaccination clinic at Grafton Base Hospital, and through their local GP clinics.

With the opening of a new Covid-19 vaccination clinic in Grafton last week, the Clarence Valley Independent hit the streets to ask locals if they have, or if they are ready to roll up their sleeves.

Harry Gregson: Yes, I’ve already received my first Oxford/AstraZeneca shot and I think it’s important that everyone gets vaccinated because vaccines are very effective.

Khiah Mason: I still don’t know if I will get vaccinated. I’ve previously had bad reactions to the flu shot, so I’m cautious. It’s good that there’s another clinic in Grafton though.

Lianda Jenkins: I’m currently expecting my third child, so I can’t get vaccinated yet. I’ll probably think about getting vaccinated after I give birth. 

McKenzie Jackson: Everyone should get vaccinated because it’s a good way to make sure you’re protected and you’re not putting anyone else at risk, especially your loved ones and people who have compromised immune systems. I’m from Sydney and I’m going to get vaccinated when I head home in a few weeks. It’s important that priority groups such as healthcare workers and the elderly are vaccinated first, so I was happy to wait for my turn.