Clarence and Richmond Valley residents are set to reap the benefits of a successful campaign to stop the spread of the coronavirus as restrictions are set to ease further across the region in the coming weeks, according to Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis.

“Restrictions are easing across NSW allowing more businesses to operate and travel to the regions as we move towards reopening the economy in a COVID-safe way.

“Gyms, yoga, indoor pools and dance studios are next and can reopen from 13 June, with kids’ sport to follow from 1 July,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“The NSW Government is taking a cautious but pragmatic approach as we gradually make it safe to return to our free way of life.

“This is happening sooner than many expected and that is because people have followed the health advice given by our best scientific experts.

Mr Gulaptis said it would not be business as usual as social distancing and extra hygiene measures would still apply to protect the vulnerable and the elderly with mandatory COVID-19 safety plans.

“But it is also about jobs and getting people back to work. The future is looking a lot better than it did a month ago,” Mr Gulaptis concluded.

A decision on a potential return date for adult community sport will be made at a later stage.

For further information about changes to restrictions, visit www.nsw.gov.au.