The Moira, Berrigan, Federation and Indigo shire councils are in a race to see which can reach that 80 per cent double dose vaccination goal the quickest, enabling communities to open up in a safe way.
Moira Shire Mayor Libro Mustica said border regions had endured harsh restrictions and multiple lockdowns, creating stress and anxiety for workers, businesses and families.
“Let’s do this for our local communities — get the vaccine so we can all open up, be safe and get back to being one united community,” Cr Mustica said.
“We are certainly stronger together than we are apart, and by as many people as possible getting the vaccine, this will safeguard our whole community.
“It would be great if Moira could be the shire with the most number of people immunised, I hope everyone will take up this challenge — let the race begin!”
Berrigan Shire Mayor Matthew Hannan said he wanted all families to be able to see their loved ones, have kids back at school, play sport and socialise in a safe way.
“We want to get our businesses to be able to do what they do best — which is have their doors open to our community,” Cr Hannan said.
“Vaccination will allow us to do all these things in a safe manner.
“We are so close to our targets, we must continue to strive for 80 per cent.
“Berrigan Shire's vaccination rates see us currently leading the charge, I look forward to seeing this number grow over the coming weeks."
Cr Hannan said vaccination was the most effective way to protect against infectious diseases.
“When we get vaccinated, we are protecting ourselves plus helping to protect the whole community,” he said.
“Higher vaccination rates also makes outbreaks much less likely and it also reduces the need for preventative measures such as border closures and travel restrictions.”