Today’s announcement from the NSW Government that it will ease restrictions for border communities on the Murray River has sparked confusion and disappointment from local tourist operators.
The decision overnight by NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard to free up access to the mighty Murray River for Victorians living within the 50km ‘border bubble’ was initially being hailed as a big win for locals.
From today, border residents will still need to apply for an online permit to cross into NSW – but they will not need to provide a specific reason.
However, this new rule will not be extended to those outside the 50km bubble, standing in the way of visitors to Swan Hill and Kerang from other parts of regional Victoria, where travel is allowed from today.
It means commercial tourist operators are turning away bookings this morning from locals who want to bring visitors with them on a cruise on the Murray River.
Locals with tinnies, houseboats and other recreational boats will be allowed to utilise the Murray River.
More to come.
