By Luke Voogt
More than 27,800 fans will be able to watch Geelong’s clash with Brisbane on Friday night, the AFL confirmed today.
The confirmation that 27,819 can attend the game comes after state government earlier this morning announced crowds could increase to 75 per cent capacity for round 2.
Acting Premier James Merlino said that Victoria’s restrictions would ease on Friday due to reduced risk and low community transmission of COVID-19.
From 6pm on Friday masks will no longer be required in retail settings.
Victorians will still need to carry a mask at all times and wear it on public transport, in rideshare vehicles and taxis, and in sensitive settings such as aged care facilities and hospitals.
Home visitor limits will increase to 100 people per day, with outdoor gatherings in public spaces increasing to 200.
Density limits in venues such as casinos, karaoke venues and nightclubs increase from one person per four square metres to one per two square metres, in line with cafes, pubs and restaurants.
The capacity in non-seated entertainment venues will increase from 50 per cent to 75 per cent, but the limit of 1000 people per space will remain.
Dancefloors will move to the same density limit of the venue and the 50-patron cap will also be removed.
Limits for outdoor and indoor physical recreation or fitness classes will no longer have limits and unstaffed gyms will move from a density limit of one person per eight square metres to one per four square metres.
The 75 per cent cap on private and public offices workers will also be removed, but the density limit of one person per two square metres will remain.
“We know the risk is far from over but thanks to the incredible work of all Victorians, we’re continuing to open up and see the Victoria we all love, return to life again,” Mr Merlino said.
“More Victorians back at work means more people supporting their local cafes, restaurants and live music venues – boosting the economy where it’s needed most.”
This afternoon Geelong Cats released details for a further 8000 tickets going on sale tomorrow.
At 10am tomorrow, any members that have yet to reserve a spot for the game can do so.
At 3pm tomorrow, any unallocated spots will be made available for public sale.
“All patrons attending Friday will be required to sign in with a QR code,” a Cats spokesperson said.
“This will add time to enter the venue. We strongly encourage all people attending the game to arrive early.”
