A number of recent inquiries have been made by enthusiastic members to participate in overseas events which is fantastic, and this advice is provided to clarify expectations for support. A review of possible options has been conducted by checking the latest advice from other snowsport and the Australian Government. The review has concluded that the travel risk remains extremely high due to the COVID19 pandemic and consequent impacts on international travel which have restricted opportunities for all except the most high-profile events.
Biathlon Australia will provide limited support and endorsement of members wishing to travel for high-performance events in preparation for the Beijing Winter Olympic Games and IBU World Cup / IBU Cup. A travel ban remains in place by the Australian Government and a permit is required to depart, therefore, Biathlon Australia will only support or endorse participation in overseas events in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear national interest under Australian Government rules, e.g., the Olympics or events that contribute to the Olympics. Obtaining a permit for overseas travel cannot be assumed, and please refer to: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/crisis/covid-19-and-travel
If an ABA member is travelling overseas for reasons other than sport, you are welcome to apply for support to enter an event in the location you are visiting. Biathlon Australia encourages members to take advantage of available biathlon opportunities wherever possible while remaining COVID safe. Please pay careful attention to the local COVID19 protocols which may be complex and costly before deciding to enter an event. The recent experience of the 2020-21 IBU winter season demonstrated numerous risks and the unusually high costs of travelling and competing in a pandemic environment, some of which are:
- Australian Government permit for essential travel required to depart
- Winter is the elevated risk season for COVID19 spread and shut-downs
- Arrival destinations have specific COVID19 entry protocols, as well as transit countries
- Event countries and organising committees have specific COVID19 protocols that may change unpredictably
- Transport and accommodation costs are extremely high
- COVID19 linked travel and health insurance is difficult and costly
- Vaccination permits are increasing in use across Europe, however, it remains inconsistent and may change unpredictably
- Quarantine is required on return to Australia that may be at own cost
Members are to refer to the latest travel advice from their home state, the Australian Government and destination/s. If you are travelling for reasons other than sport, please feel free to inform Biathlon Australia of travel plans so that possible events can be discussed, and contact us at: info.biathlon.aus@gmail.com
The pandemic has restricted many opportunities to enjoy what was previously accepted as normal, and the loss of opportunities is disappointing for all of us.
