Update: 03/08/2020: Sorry, folks! The rules have changed (again) for Victorians. Those within the Melbourne metropolitan region can no longer just go for a drive. You can see the updated rules on the Department of Health and Human Services website.
If you live in Melbourne like me, you’ll realise how draining and disappointing it is to enter another six-week lockdown.
Yes, we know why we’re here and yes, we know why it needs to happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to love the situation you’re stuck in.
But there’s light at the end of the tunnel, a silver lining to help maintain sanity throughout the upcoming six-week period.
The good news is casual drives for no reason are allowed.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services website, under the question of “Can I get out of the house and just go for a drive?”, the answer is a resounding yes.
“Yes, however this can only be undertaken within metropolitan Melbourne or Mitchell Shire, and should not involve leaving your vehicle for any purpose except for the four reasons (shopping for necessary goods or services, care, caregiving or compassionate reasons, exercise, and work or study).”
This, of course, makes perfect sense. Being locked in your own car going for a drive from home, out, and back to home won’t affect anybody.
Arguments about the risk of having a car accident or breakdown are far fetched, especially when you see people flocking to parts of the city (ahem, The Tan Track) to exercise in droves.
The caveat here is if you’re currently locked down in the Melbourne metropolitan area, your casual drive can only be within the Melbourne or Mitchell Shire area. That area includes some cracking driving roads and beautiful scenery.
If you end up feeling like your cooped up inside, grab the car keys and head out for a drive to your favourite road in the metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire area, your mind will thank you for it.
What are your favourite driving roads in this area?
MORE: Why the COVID-19 driving rules were silly to start with
