” The worst-case scenario is I’ll have to quarantine for two weeks in the house”.
This is what I informed pals and associates before leaving Hobart bound for Melbourne to check out the children I had not seen since Christmas.
That was 4 weeks ago and I had no idea how incorrect I was.
I showed up in Melbourne the day Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein announced the state’s borders would reopen on July 24, the day before my prepared go back to Hobart.
Every government statement because, whether Tasmanian or Victorian, has actually underscored the folly of my optimism.
As Victoria’s COVID-19 case numbers continued to increase, it was quickly evident Tasmania would not resume its border with Victoria whenever soon.
The blindside was Tasmania mandating hotel quarantine without notification for people returning from Victoria.
That prompted a flurry of activity and communication. I used to be excused from hotel quarantine and to quarantine in your home rather.
I was taking a trip alone and living alone. I was well prepared to quarantine and with support from the Hobart newsroom I might continue to work from home.
I was prepared to leave Melbourne and my children early, but only if I could home quarantine and reduce the impact on work.
I initially got an exemption on Friday, July 10, with sup