A Victorian man has been issued a COVID infringement for failing to wear a mask at the Burnie Airport.
At 08:30 am on Monday 8th February 2021, police were undertaking COVID compliance duties at the Burnie Airport when they saw the 51-year-old man enter the terminal without wearing a mask.
The man was holding a mask and was given several instructions to wear it, before his continued refusal resulted in police issuing him a $774 fine.
On 22 January 2021, Public Health Director Mark Veitch issued a direction requiring the mandatory wearing of masks at all Tasmanian Airports and flights to and from Tasmania. A further direction, which included reasons for exemptions was issued on the 5th of February 2021.
It is alleged that the man did not have an exemption and did not meet the conditions to temporarily remove his mask as detailed in the current direction.
Inspector Gary Williams said:
"We have seen a high compliance with COVID rules on the North West Coast since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
"Our main priority is to educate the public, but on occasion it is necessary to take action against those individuals whose behaviour puts others at risk.
"Now is not the time to become complacent and we continue to seek the support of the community to keep all of us safe."
COVID-19 non-compliance can be reported on 1800 671 738 or online at the Tasmanian Health Hotline.
