‘I waited 332 days’: Daniel Andrews’ sweet reunion with his mother

As coronavirus restrictions ease across the country, Australians have been able to reunite with loved ones just in time for Christmas. That’s the case for Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews who has finally reunited with his 75-year-old mother, Jan, after spending almost a year apart due to the coronavirus pandemic and catastrophic bushfire crisis earlier this year.

On Wednesday, the premier took to Instagram to share an image of their reunion, which saw the pair soaking up some sun together at his mother’s home in Wangaratta, a two-and-a-half hour drive northeast of Melbourne. Andrews can be seen wearing a black mask while his mother sports one with a floral design. “Waited 332 days for this,” he captioned the post.

According to the Daily Mail, the premier has been separated from his mum since before Christmas in 2019, when disastrous bushfires ripped through Victoria. A couple of months later travel restrictions were put in place due to the coronavirus crisis, and then again, after Andrews placed Victoria in a strict lockdown for a second time back in August, which saw Victorians unable to travel more than 5 kilometres from their homes.

 

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A post shared by Dan Andrews (@danielandrewsmp)

Andrews’ followers were quick to comment on the sweet photo, with the majority congratulating him on his efforts during the state’s hard lockdown, which saw the premier hold a daily press conference for 120 days straight as Victoria battled its second wave of coronavirus infections. One wrote: “You’ve well & truly earned that cuppa! Enjoy & thank you for everything you’ve done.”

Another commented: “You have made so many personal sacrifices in the line of duty this year and we all appreciate it. Enjoy some family time. You certainly earned it.”

And a third thanked him, writing: “A beautiful photo, Dan. You both so deserve this catchup. So happy for you and thank you for keeping us safe. Will never forget your efforts for Victoria.”

Meanwhile, one commenter said they’re also reuniting with family later this year, writing: “Enjoy the time Mr Andrews. I’m flying from WA in December to visit two of my daughters, partner and granddaughter for three weeks. Haven’t seen them for over 12 months… you’re doing a great job.”

Another said they saw their parents for the first time in seven months on Monday, writing: “It sucked being apart for so long but they are both in their 70’s and have their own health stuff so while it was a long wait, at least they were there to be seen at the end of the long wait. Hope you and your mum enjoyed some quality time together today. Take care.”