Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has rolled out the welcome mat to Brisbane residents ahead of the city's move into Stage 1 of the recovery tomorrow.
Last month, Cr Tate told visitors to stay away after thousands of people flocked to the city and prompted the closure of beaches at The Spit, Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta.
But with only one active COVID-19 case recorded in the region this week, that advice had changed.
"The out-of-towners, come on down," Cr Tate said.
"You might be a bit close and squeezy in Brisbane, but when you get to the Gold Coast — social distancing please."
The Gold Coast City Council is following the Queensland Government's lead by allowing play grounds, gym equipment and barbecue areas to reopen.
Skate parks, outdoor basketball courts and sporting fields can be also used for organised groups of 10 people, including school groups and sporting clubs.
But the city's public swimming pools and libraries will not open this weekend.
Cr Tate said a meeting would be held on Monday, May 18 to discuss how and when they would open.
Back on the clean streets
Bonogin resident Carly Stodolak said she was excited the city was starting to reopen.
"We are happy to go back to some form of normality, with caution of course," Ms Stodolak said.
"We've enjoyed the time at home and the slower lifestyle, but we are looking forward to returning to support the local cafes and going to parks when they aren't so busy.
"But [we will be] making sure we wash our hands and maintain some form of social distancing."
The mother of three said the closure of the city's playgrounds had impacted her children.
"My three year old asks if he can go to the playground, he did today, and I just have to explain that there's a virus," she said.
"They've been so resilient and understanding."
While her children were excited about playing on swings and slides, Ms Stodolak said she was looking forward to spending some time away from her boys.
"Going out for dinner with my husband and hiring a babysitter," she said.
Gold Coast restaurants and cafes can also reopen from Saturday, with up to 10 patrons allowed.
