Queensland netball teams prevented from travelling to SA hub

Two Queensland Super Netball teams have been denied entry into South Australia following changes to border restriction plans, amid concerns about the coronavirus threat from the eastern states.

Four teams relocated to Adelaide yesterday after the national Super Netball league announced it would establish a hub in South Australia for the final four rounds of the season.

The Queensland Firebirds and the Sunshine Coast Lightning were due to fly into Adelaide today but were prevented from travelling after a planned relaxation of border restrictions was scrapped by the SA government yesterday.

The move was in response to heightened concerns about COVID-19 transmissions in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, and coincides with increased internal social distancing measures.

“A late decision by the state government to extend border restrictions on Queenslanders entering the southern state has prevented [the] Lightning from travelling this weekend,” the club said in a statement.

Instead, both Queensland teams will remain in their home state for their round 11 derby.

The league said it would work with the SA government in the hope of securing the Firebirds and Lightning entry into SA, under strict protocols, for future matches.

The Queensland Firebirds also said they would “continue to work with the league on securing fixtures for the remaining rounds”.

Lightning chief executive officer Danielle Smith said the club was optimistic about a solution being reached.

“The ever-evolving COVID-19 landscape comes with it a number of complexities that we have to work through in conjunction with the league,” she said.

“Athlete wellbeing is paramount and as a club that is our first priority in the coming days.”

Four of the round 11 games will be held in Adelaide, while the Firebirds will take on the Lightning in Brisbane on Monday night.

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