Santa Claus given ‘extra-special’ travel exemption to bring presents this Christmas

·

The global COVID-19 pandemic will not impede Santa or his helpers’ entry into NSW on 24 and 25 December, thanks to an extra-special “essential workers” exemption granted by the NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard.

Mr Hazzard has written to Mr Claus’s North Pole address to say he and his elves and nine reindeers are not required to complete a 14-day isolation in hotel quarantine after their sleigh crosses the NSW border.

This exemption has been shared with NSW Police to ensure Santa is able to travel freely and safely across Australia’s most populous state.

Queensland Health has asked Santa to wash his hands before and after eating milk and cookies.(Reuters: Pawel Kopczynski)

“Mr Claus, I understand you have significant magical powers which allow you to travel the world safely without transmitting COVID-19,” Mr Hazzard writes in the letter.

“I am aware you have safely delivered presents to children in Australia during previous pandemics and as a result I am confident you will take the necessary precautions to keep our community safe.

“Accordingly, this exemption will include the following precautions:

  • All presents will be delivered after bedtime to minimise contact;
  • You and your elves maintain 1.5 metres physical distancing should you encounter others;
  • If you are unwell, you get a COVID-19 test and isolate right away;
  • You and your elves must wash your hands regularly and carry hand sanitiser;
  • Wear a mask if you or your elves are ever unable to maintain physical distancing.”

A spokeswoman for Santa Claus confirmed receipt of the special exemption and said Santa and his helpers were only too happy to comply, having secured a jumbo supply of hand and hoof sanitiser to last their journey.

“After a challenging year, Mr Claus wants this Christmas to be the best yet,” she said.

“Santa’s advice to the NSW community is to stay safe and look after each other as you reflect on how blessed NSW has been in keeping COVID-19 at bay.”

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Step into the world of mental health with Georgia Cassimatis’ latest book

Greek Australian author and journalist, Georgia Cassimatis, has released a book all about exploring the world of mental health.

GOCNSW Welfare Service to put a spotlight on cyber security awareness

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW’s (GOCNSW) Welfare Service has organised three Cyber Security Awareness education and training workshops.

Marriage of a Greek woman abroad: What to watch out for

It is during this registration process that numerous problems arise, which are not dealt with immediately but later on.

Athena Competition Greek winners show olive oil diversity

By Lisa Radinovsky from Greek Liquid Gold. At the 10th anniversary edition of the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition in Chania, Crete, Greece in May, 175 Greek olive oils...

Greece’s island communities face population crisis

The demographic decline in Greece is hitting its islands hard, with Lemnos and Agios Efstratios showing alarming signs of aging populations.

You May Also Like

Martin Dougiamas: The Greek Australian who made online learning accessible across the globe

Moodle, the online learning system that Greek Australian, was created by Martin Dougiamas back in the dawn of the internet age as we know it. 

Tourism Minister implements new phase for Greek tourism

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias has announced that the ministry will be implementing the next phase of its tourism strategy.

Heritage Care director Peter Arvanitis resigns

Heritage Care CEO Greg Reeve said Arvanitis decided to resign last week as a Director of Heritage Care, not wanting to "be a distraction to the good work of staff".