Pitch a tent at home this Easter

Camp in your own backyard this Easter.

That’s the message from Cairns Mayor Bob Manning who is reinforcing the Prime Minister’s direction for residents to stay home this Easter.

“We know the Easter long weekend is traditionally a time for road trips, recreation, holidays, and getting family and friends together, but doing that this year would undo all we have achieved so far through social distancing and eliminating non-essential travel,” Cr Manning said.

“The message is clear, stay at home unless you have an essential need to go out.

“What we practice today and this weekend, will determine how long we must continue to undertake these measures to fight the spread of coronavirus.

“Now is not the time to be complacent. If we work together, maybe we can find a shortcut to the finish line.”

Places of worship remain closed to the public, but services will be streamed. Only clergy and those formally involved in services or streaming are permitted to attend.

“Take advantage of this weekend to do those projects around the house you never have time to do, maybe some gardening or painting,” Cr Manning said.

“Do something fun; set up your tent, toast marshmallows and enjoy time with your immediate family.

“For those feeling lonely or isolated, make use of technology to stay connected with your friends and family, interact through social media, make video calls and even try some online video gaming.”

The Australian Government has funded Beyond Blue and Headspace to provide free support services for all people in Australia 24/7 during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Beyond Blue: Call 1800 512 348 or visit beyondblue.org.au for free counselling by mental health professionals, both online and over the phone.Headspace: Visit headspace.org.au for support and resources for young people affected by the emotional impact related to COVID-19.

Some ideas on how you can continue the joy, celebrations and connectedness in a different way:

Camp or picnic in your backyard.Stay in touch, call a friend or relative.Set up an Easter egg hunt around your house and yard.Join friends and family for a virtual Easter meal.Get those home projects done.Give blood or join Queensland’s Care Army.Try some self-improvement – read a book, exercise and meditate.Get your friends and family together for some online gaming.Try something new – a new recipe or at-home hobby.