Covid 19 coronavirus Victoria: Virus deniers ready for mass gathering

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. Photo / File

Coronavirus deniers are gathering for a mass demonstration in Melbourne today – despite case numbers spiralling out of control.

Coronavirus deniers are gathering for a mass demonstration to honour the Anzacs in Melbourne today – despite the city's cases numbers spiralling out of control.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. Photo / File

Members of a national conservative Christian Facebook group have already posted pictures of a "dawn service" in Sydney this morning.

And despite record coronavirus case numbers in Victoria, an event is also scheduled at Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance.

Many in the more-than 2000-member Christian group say they are going. A flyer for the event is being circulated widely among anti-mask communities, urging people to pay tribute to the soldiers in spite of strict lockdown orders.

Premier Daniel Andrews yesterday gave a clear warning to those wishing to gather for the event.

"Don't do it," he said. "The only thing we should be protesting against, or fighting against, is this virus. Stay at home means stay at home. It's not one of the lawful reasons to leave your home."

The state had its deadliest day on Thursday – and Australia's highest daily total in the pandemic so far, recording 723 new Covid-19 cases.

After announcing 13 deaths on Thursday morning, a 14th death was reported that night – a man in his 50s from the regional Victorian town of Portland in the state's west.