Daniel Andrews hits out at 'shameful' protest photo
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has hit out at a ‘Give Dan the boot’ protest picture amid the state’s lockdown controversy.
The campaign encouraged Victorians to post a picture of a boot on social media, one of which was taken in front of a shed at the farm where Mr Andrews’ father’s funeral was held.
It comes as the Victorian Premier faces heavy criticism after extending the lockdown measures to October 26, despite the decrease in new daily coronavirus cases.
On Tuesday the Premier said the particular picture taken at the farm was a low act.
“I saw that photo, the photo was sent to me by someone. That’s not the front gate to that farm. I know that farm well. Those boots had been positioned not at the front gate but at a different gate to make a point,” he told reporters.
“I’m happy for people to make their points, provided they’re not doing anything to spread the coronavirus. But I’ll just say this – having different views to me, that’s fine. It’s a healthy part of our democratic society. But decency matters too.
“The last time I was in that shed, was when I carried my father’s coffin out of it, and I think that that is – I won’t use the words that my father would use to describe that sort of act – that’s just low.
“Have a different view to me, but leave my family out of it, and particularly the dead members of my family out of it. I don’t think that’s too much to ask. Shame, shame on him, shame.”
Liberal MP Richard Riordan is one of many who have posted a photo of a boot on social media along with other Victorians frustrated by the strict lockdown.
The state reported 42 new cases on Tuesday and zero coronavirus deaths, however under current plans the night curfew and five kilometre travel radius will remain in metro Melbourne until late October, as will a ban on most homes having visitors.
Many Victorians have expressed exasperation at the roadmap out of lockdown, with Federal Liberal MP Tim Wilson, who lives in the city, saying his fellow Melburnians were increasingly angry, particularly at the curfew.
Mr Andrews however announced on Tuesday that coronavirus restrictions in regional Victoria would be eased from Wednesday night.
One of the main changes will be the four reasons for leaving the home will no longer apply.
People will also be able to meet outdoors in groups of 10, while up to five visitors from another household are allowed to visit another home.
Hospitality will reopen for groups of 10 and will predominantly operate with outdoor dining only while the majority of retail shopping will open.
Schools will return in a staggered approach, culminating in all students onsite for Term 4 with safety measures.
Weddings will be allowed a 10-person capacity while 20 will be allowed to attend a funeral.
Beauty services will open if face coverings can be worn for the entirety of service.
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