People flocked to Watton Street in Werribee’s town centre after the state’s COVID-19 lockdown ended at midnight on Thursday.
On Friday, traders sold clothing and goods outside the front of their stores, as mandated by the state government’s continuing pandemic restrictions.
Socially-distanced queues formed outside barbershops and hairdressing salons, while cafes, pubs and restaurants welcomed back sit-down diners for the first time in months.
Imran Abul Kasem from Westend Photography captured the joy as residents came together for catch-ups, enjoyed a bite to eat and ran errands, after Victoria hit its 70 per cent COVID-19 vaccination target.
As the state races towards the 80 per cent COVID-19 vaccine target, November 1 will mark the day when Victorians will be permitted to travel internationally without having to seek an exemption from the federal government.
Premier Daniel Andrews last week thanked Victorians for their efforts through the lockdowns and restrictions of the past months.
“Victorians have achieved something incredible, and I couldn’t be prouder,” he said.
Visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covidsafe-settings to book a coronavirus vaccination.
