Happy times as Katanning comes out of lockdown and enters phase free

Life in the Great Southern is returning to normal under Phase 3 of WA’s relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, with pubs welcoming back regulars and laughter echoing around the town’s playgrounds.

Premier Mark McGowan shifted WA’s focus to “borders, beauty and barbells” on Saturday, with gathering limits lifted to 100 people per space or up to 300 people in settings with separated areas.

WA was the first State to move into Phase 3, with the 4sqm per person rule reduced to 2sqm.

Hospitality venues can now serve alcohol without a meal to seated patrons, while gyms, beauty salons, cinemas and playgrounds can reopen.

Katanning’s Royal Exchange Hotel resumed seated service yesterday.

The All Ages Playground, which underwent a $5 million redevelopment last year, was the most popular place in town on Saturday.

Reece and Raquel Tacey, from Ravensthorpe, visited Katanning for a picnic at the playground with their two daughters.

Katanning’s Larissa Chen caught up with family while her daughters, Miyasha, 3, and Nikkirah Katie, 11 months, enjoyed the play equipment.