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North get green light for Hobart AFL game

3 minute read

The North Melbourne and Melbourne AFL fixture in Hobart will go ahead as originally planned after the Tasmanian government eased border restrictions with WA.

Winless North Melbourne have been given the green light to enter Tasmania for Sunday's AFL match against high-flying Melbourne.

There was an air of uncertainty around the round-seven fixture after the Kangaroos spent time in Perth, which went into a snap lockdown after a coronavirus outbreak.

Tasmania put up a hard border with the Western Australia capital and nearby Peel region but have announced the restrictions would lift from 5pm on Wednesday.

The decision allows the Kangaroos to fly from Melbourne to Hobart for the Blundstone Arena match.

"There will be no restrictions associated with the recent Western Australia COVID outbreak that will impede the AFL match at Blundstone Arena," Tasmania's deputy state controller Scott Tilyard said.

North Melbourne players and staff returned from Perth on Sunday after their loss to Fremantle the day prior.

The club confirmed on Monday all players and staff tested for COVID-19 had returned negative results.

They've since been allowed to reintegrate with the community.

"The Victorian and Tasmanian governments have been transparent and vigilant throughout the process," North Melbourne CEO Ben Amarfio said.

"It was a delicate situation but ultimately we have the best outcome possible and will play in Hobart for the first time this season."

WA's snap lockdown, implemented after a man contracted the virus while staying at one of the state's quarantine hotels, was eased on Monday night.

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