An easing of restrictions in Queensland

Here in Queensland we have had an easing of Corona virus self isolation restrictions if that is the correct terminology. Starting at midnight on Friday 1st May we were allowed to go for a drive up to 50km, have a picnic, take out a boat or jet ski, shop for an outfit or a book but only with our household or one other person. I just saw the bit about 'shopping for a book' on the Queensland Government website and that was a surprise as I have never heard that before. 

I must say the message is sometimes confusing as our Premier said we could now shop for clothes and shoes and I wasn't aware that before the 2nd May we weren't allowed to as several dress and shoe shops still remained open in the shopping centres as well as department stores like BigW, Target and KMart when most of the dress and shoe shops closed down.  Why did they remain open if we weren't supposed to shop for non-essentials? I have no idea.

Some people I know are concerned about a second wave of virus cases if people become too relaxed about our comparatively small numbers of fatalities here in Australia. The numbers in some countries are just staggering and it seems we have dodged a bullet at this stage. Most people seem to be sticking to the guidelines but there were a few parties held over the long weekend in SE Queensland  that had to be shut down and fines were given out so hopefully that will be a reminder to everyone, young and old, not to be too blase.

Also some school classes here in Queensland will go back next Monday on the 11th. They are Kindy, Prep, Yr 1 and Yrs 11 and 12. A decision will be made on the return of the other classes on May 15th. I am sure a lot of parents will be happy although it will be a tad difficult in families that have children in different classes especially as a lot of parents are working from home.

Life goes on as normal here and not much has changed apart from the fact that I haven't been able to catch up with friends so I have been trying to get the veggie patch up and running again. It seems we have quite a few pests around which are getting stuck into the seedlings and they just love the chrysanthemums for some reason.

We have had some interesting visitors in the garden this past week and some have been more welcome than others.  

Our local farmers' market is still running and last Saturday I bought my fruit and veggies and then took a walk across the road to Queens Park to see what is growing there. Near the entrance there is a building going up which looks interesting and presumably it is going to be built in time for the Carnival of Flowers if they are held. Apparently a decision will be made by the 1st July.

Some of the trees are looking beautiful as the leaves change colour. 

A visit to BMS and Bunnings was on the cards at the weekend to buy some potting mix etc. and there was no problem getting into BMS but across the road at Bunnings we had to line up before we could go inside. The line was moving very quickly when we were there so we didn't have to wait. There is now only one door to enter through and one exit door and no sausage sizzle....of course!

As I haven't seen my 83 year old sister for over a month I thought I would take her for a drive today although she drives all the time and should stay home but she doesn't. We went to Danish Flower Art which I didn't realise hadn't shut down at all during the past month.

This is a great place to visit if you are interested in beading, gourds, succulents and other bits and pieces. There is also a cafe there where take-away drinks and food are available.

It is well worth a visit and I am sure lots of locals will be stocking up on their supplies. 

We just had a little light rain which probably wasn't enough to wet the ground so I had better grab the gum boots and check out the veggies. I think I need to wear my glasses to find out what is nibbling on them even though they are under our veggie netting. Obviously I haven't secured it well enough. 

I hope everyone is staying well and happy!