Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill has criticised the State Government for its ‘Reopening NSW roadmap’ that continues to change without notice, creating angst and confusion in the community – particularly in relation to pools.
“Let me be clear. Council is operating within a framework that is set by the State Government,” Mayor Greenhill said. “This framework, at times, defies logic. It changes at a moment’s notice and administrators of public facilities, like Council, are left to sort through the mess.”
In line with NSW Government direction, Council opened outdoor pools at Glenbrook, Lawson and Blackheath for all the community (vaccinated and unvaccinated) on 27 September.
“We did this with 7 days’ notice, which was an enormous feat by our Leisure Centre staff,” Mayor Greenhill said. “But the State Government specified yesterday, in media announcements, that only fully vaccinated people can now visit outdoor pools from Monday (11 October). Unvaccinated people, 16 years and over, will be turned away because the State Government says so. There is no consistency.
“If this is the Government’s position, it should have been the position from the beginning.
“Also, indoor pools were not to open on 11 October. But the NSW Government also announced yesterday (7 October) via the media that indoor pools can now open for booked lessons from Monday.
“The State Government is making these decisions, while providing no clear guidance to organisations like Council who have to manage these facilities. I would urge community members who are upset by these changes in rules, to contact the State Government about the inconsistencies. It’s not Council’s call.”
COVID Safe check-ins are required for patrons visiting Council pools.
There are two ways to show proof of vaccinations (for those 16 years and older):
- A COVID-19 certificate (a digital or printed copy)
- An immunisation history statement (a digital or printed copy).
Get more information at nsw.gov.au/vaccinations.
Masks are also required in all indoor settings (except for those under 12 years), unless exercising. There are also be density limits for some areas.
You can stay up to date on the reopening of Council services and facilities at bmcc.nsw.gov.au/COVID19-updates.
Get more information on the NSW Government’s ‘Reopening NSW Roadmap’ at https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/easing-covid-19-restrictions.
