Thank you to our health workers

This week marks three-months since the Darling Downs last had an active case of Coronavirus.

In acknowledging this milestone, Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio thanked the community for their efforts in helping to limit transmission.

“Since 11 April we haven’t had an active case in our Region, which is not only a credit to our entire community, but also to our civil servants and everyone who has played their part,” he said.

“As a leader in this community I’m extremely proud of the way the community has adapted to the changes required and practised social distancing where possible.

“Although we tragically lost two residents when this pandemic first broke, when you look at what has happened on a global scale, it could have been so much worse for us here in the Toowoomba Region.

“While we’re not completely out of the woods just yet, we have seen restrictions beginning to ease and a return to normality which is encouraging.

“All levels of government need to be congratulated for their leadership during this period, as well as Queensland Police Service Superintendent Mark Kelly and his team, but in particular, I must commend the unbelievable work of our health workers.

“What they’ve done in these unprecedented times has been nothing short of exceptional.”

Darling Downs Health Board Chair Mike Horan AM thanked Mayor Antonio for his comments, praising the work of staff in response to the pandemic.

“There has been a significant amount of work done by our Darling Downs Health team over the past six months to co-ordinate a comprehensive response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic,” Mr Horan said.

“I would like to thank our Darling Downs Health Chief Executive Dr Peter Gillies, his leadership team and all our staff who have worked tirelessly to care for and protect our communities during this pandemic.

“I would like to especially thank the staff in our Public Health Unit who have managed an enormous workload in this time and our staff who volunteered to support the drive-in fever sites.

“I would also like to thank our communities across the Darling Downs Health region who have adjusted to change by following public health directions, helping to limit the spread of COVID-19.

“I am so proud of what we have all been able to achieve together, and I urge everyone to continue playing their part to protect themselves and the most vulnerable people in our community.

“Our work is not done, and our progress could be stalled or reversed if we don’t continue to follow public health directions, practice social distancing, and maintain good hand hygiene.

“I ask you to please stay at home if you are sick and get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms. We are living in exceptional times, but with patience, kindness, and cooperation, we will get through this together.”