As New South Wales starts reopening from 11 October, there will be a few changes to Council services in line with the NSW Government’s Reopening NSW Roadmap.
From Monday 11 October, community members will need to be fully vaccinated or have a signed medical contraindication form to access Council pools, libraries, the Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre and our community halls.
In line with the roadmap, the Sapphire Aquatic Centre in Pambula will be open for swimming lessons, squad training, lap swimming and rehabilitation, however not for general recreational swimming.
A click and collect service will be implemented at shire libraries for members of the community who have not yet met the vaccination requirements, and library staff will be available to help people get their digital vaccination certificate on their device, by appointment.
All other Council services including customer service, waste facilities, Recovery Support Service, children’s services, road repairs, public toilet maintenance and keeping our water and sewer network operating effectively will continue in line with the current health advice regarding physical distancing and mask wearing.
Acting CEO, Anthony McMahon said Council would continue to monitor the health advice and adjust service models as required.
“I’d like to thank the community for their patience as we adjust our services and implement new systems to align with the NSW Government’s roadmap and health advice,” Mr McMahon said.
“Our number one priority is community safety and ensuring continued access to Council services.
“We’re currently working across our sites to ensure the community is aware of the changes that come into effect from Monday.”
Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Cr Russell Fitzpatrick welcomed the broader easing of restrictions and called for continued vigilance.
“As the state opens up and we enjoy some easing of the restrictions, it’s important that we continue to follow the health advice including physical distancing and mask wearing,” Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
“We may also see an increase in COVID cases—and that could include in our shire. This will become our new normal as we learn to live with COVID. If you are feeling unwell or have any symptoms at all, please get tested and self-isolate.”
More information:
- Roadmap for easing COVID-19 restrictions: www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/easing-covid-19-restrictions
- COVID-19 updates and advice from the NSW Government: www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19
Testing clinics: www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/how-to-protect-yourself-and-others/clinics
