One of the first elite sporting events to return in person to Tasmania's social sport scene, the event also coincided with recent significant restriction announcements.

In a move to rival Father Christmas, Premier Peter Gutwein announced the relaxation of the much-maligned "vertical drinking" ban, as well as announcing we can get our groove on again.

Dancing has also been reinstated as a social activity, at venues and for events such as weddings. These restrictions, and the return of large-scale events have Northern Tasmania looking and feeling a bit more like normal - especially in the lead up to Christmas. However, a crucial weapon in Tasmania's fight against the coronavirus is testing rates - and that's one area where the state could see some improvement.

Testing rates for COVID-19 in Tasmania are among the lowest in the country, bar Queensland. This is despite Tasmanians presenting in high numbers for hay fever and allergies. With a vaccine still several months away, it's important Tasmanians remain vigilant to ensure that we don't have a second wave of COVID entering our communities.

The state's run of zero cases may be over, thanks to the government's repatriation flight deal, but there is some comfort in the knowledge that the virus is not rampant in the community.

While the feeling of normality returns to Tasmania, now is the time to remind residents to not be complacent - get tested and be sure, even if your symptoms are mild.

If you experience any symptoms, stay home and isolate - until you receive a negative test and are advised you can return to the community. Coronavirus looks like it's here to stay, even when the vaccine is rolled out, so these measures are likely to remain with us. Life is never going to return to normal, but we each have a role to play in ensuring Tasmania keeps its upward trajectory with restrictions and to make sure everyone has the possibility to have a safe and happy holiday season.