Former Australian cricketer Dean Jones, who died of a heart attack in India a fortnight ago, was farewelled in a COVID-appropriate ceremony at the MCG.

His wife Jane, daughters Isabella and Phoebe and Jones' siblings were among the group of 10 in attendance.

"It has been an awful time to navigate as a family, but I could not have thought of a more fitting place to say goodbye to my husband than under the lights of his beloved MCG."

She thanked all concerned - the Melbourne Cricket Club, the MCG, Cricket Australia - and also the Department of Foreign Affairs "for ensuring Dean was returned home to us as quickly as possible".

Such a sudden, unexpected passing - in a faraway land - is tragic by any measure. Thoughts of Aussies, cricket fans and otherwise, have understandably flowed to the Jones family. Let's hope that this is the benchmark for Australians overseas when a similar tragedy strikes.

It is understood Jones will be remembered at this year's Boxing Day Test at the same venue when the mood may be more celebratory than sombre.

Meanwhile on the other side of the country, parents can rest easy - you can still use the "behave or I'll tell Santa" line. Premier Mark McGowan has confirmed the big fella won't need to quarantine for 14 days.

Albany parent Tammy Bemben said her children Isabelle and Millie had written to the Premier, concerned over the impact of COVID-19 on the most exciting time of the year. They also were worried about Santa's aged nature and his virus vulnerability.

But, no matter, Mr McGowan said in reply to their letters: "It is still a long way to go before Christmas but I think we can safely assume that Santa will not be required to do 14 days quarantine while he travels through WA."

Phew.

Mr McGowan has form with aspiring voters. It was he back in April who declared the Easter Bunny "eggsempt" from border restrictions.

Wonder which Queensland kid is up for the challenge of writing to Annastacia Palaszczuk?

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