Wide Bay and Burnett industry and local government leaders are leading by example by encouraging as many local people as possible to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said he was impressed by the commitment of the agriculture industry and local governments to reaching the 80 per cent double dose vaccination target ahead of border restrictions easing in December.
“I’ve been impressed by the efforts of local businesses like Nolan Meats and local mayors like Brett Otto in the South Burnett who are committed to seeing locals get vaccinated to keep them safe,” Mr Furner said during a visit to Gympie, Goomboorian and Kingaroy this week.
“Whether it is offering incentives, providing vaccination information or just getting the message out, these contributions are critical to making sure this region hits the targets.
“Agriculture is an essential industry in Queensland and a vital part of Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan, so it was really important that the sector stood up when it comes to vaccinations.
“By doing this they make sure that fantastic Queensland produce still gets on plates domestically and around the world, protecting Queensland jobs and keeping more Queenslanders safe.
“Now we need unvaccinated Queenslanders to follow their example so we can once again welcome people from interstate and overseas to enjoy what we love about our state.
“Mayor Otto has an important platform as the Mayor of South Burnett, and he is serving his community well by sharing a strong pro-vaccination message.”
South Burnett Mayor Brett Otto welcomed the commitment from the Premier to get behind the Covid-19 vaccination rollout across regional Queensland.
“This includes getting Cabinet Ministers out across rural communities, on the ground, getting the job done in supporting local councils in keeping communities safe and protecting the critical agricultural sectors of our economy,” Mayor Otto said.
“I welcome Minister Furner’s visit to our region. As a senior minister in the Palaszczuk government, Minister Furner is a strong voice for the rural sector and his presence will make a real difference in getting the community behind the pressing issue of vaccination rates.
“Now is not a time for apathy. Under the strong leadership of our Premier, Queenslanders have stayed in a good place while other states and nations felt the Covid impact.
“There’s more to do and now more than ever we must support the Premier’s call to action to get vaccinated.”
