A truck driver in South Australia has tested positive for COVID-19.
Key points:
The driver from Victoria tested positive at Yamba on Saturday.
SA Health has determined he previously traveled through the state.
His co-driver has also tested positive.
The co-driver is linked to the Victorian truck driver who received his positive result at the SA-Victoria border.
The first driver, in his 20s, was tested at Yamba and continued his journey through South Australia towards Western Australia before learning of his result.
Both individuals have been quarantined at a medi-hotel in Adelaide since Saturday.
Authorities now suspect these drivers traveled through South Australia about a week prior.
SA Health has identified multiple tier 2 exposure sites linked to their travels, including service stations in Ceduna, Port Augusta, and Renmark.
In addition, two more locations have been newly classified as tier 2 exposure sites due to the co-driver’s positive test, namely the Yamba Caltex and the Port Augusta OTR.
Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier expressed frustration that the drivers failed to use QR codes for check-ins, complicating contact tracing efforts.
She emphasized that these types of movements raise concerns for communities along freight routes.
Health officials are monitoring wastewater in these areas closely.
From Thursday onwards, all truck drivers entering South Australia from Victoria, New South Wales, or the Australian Capital Territory must have received at least one COVID-19 vaccination.
Couple Appears in Court After Alleged Border Breach
In related news, SA Police apprehended a couple for allegedly crossing the border illegally.
Bernadatte Reed, 51, and Geoffrey Barnes, 55, appeared via video link in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court without applying for bail.
The pair, both from Colignan in regional Victoria, allegedly avoided border checkpoints while traveling to the Riverland.
Authorities stated neither had the necessary approvals to enter South Australia and will remain in custody until their court appearance next month.
Both individuals have returned negative COVID-19 test results so far.
For more updates on COVID-19, follow our comprehensive coverage.
