A new COVID-19 vaccination clinic has opened for truck drivers at the Goondiwindi Showgrounds.
It comes after the Palaszczuk Government announced on Tuesday that vaccinations would soon be mandatory for all freight drivers entering Queensland.
The clinic is located at the Goondiwindi Showgrounds on Boundary Street and will be open seven days a week from 6am to 10pm. It will provide AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccinations.
"Freight workers and truck drivers are absolutely essential to keeping food on the table and rebuilding our economy," said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.
"We want to make it as easy as possible for all truck drivers to get vaccinated – that's why we've established a second roadside clinic at Goondiwindi.
"Goondiwindi is an important transport interchange for freight drivers transporting vital supplies.
"This is about keeping Queenslanders safe. We've seen what Delta has done to Sydney and Melbourne.
"Getting vaccinated is our best defence.
"I urge all Queenslanders to please get vaccinated to save lives and preserve our way of life."
Today's announcement comes after the government opened its first roadside clinic for freight drivers at Tugun on the Gold Coast, on Tuesday.
This vaccination clinic is in addition to the COVID-19 testing site at the Goondiwindi Caltex which provides testing services to truck and heavy vehicle operators.
Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said the Goondiwindi pop-up vaccination clinic had been established near the border– in a location with plenty of parking for trucks.
"We know that due to the nature of their work, truck drivers are often more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 than other workers," she said.
"We want to protect these workers, their families and all Queenslanders from COVID-19 – that's why vaccination clinics like this one are so important."
Drivers are encouraged to preregister their details before stopping for a vaccination at Goondiwindi.
To preregister, visit vaccinebookings.health.qld.gov.au/registerforvaccination/
Alternatively, drivers can phone 134 268.
