As of today, Friday 15 May, outdoor public swimming pools, outdoor play equipment, outdoor gymnasium equipment, parks and skate parks across the Shoalhaven will begin to re-open to the community, following the NSW Government’s initial easing of COVID-19 restrictions. This is the first stage on the road map to COVID-19 recovery, however, the community should not become complacent.
The Shoalhaven must be mindful that gathering and movement restrictions still apply in outdoor areas, persons may participate in gatherings of up to 10 people in public places. To help reduce possible infection and transmission of the virus, if the park appears to be over capacity, look for an alternative way for children to play or visit another play area.
The community is reminded that penalties do apply for Public Health Act breaches, with a maximum penalty of imprisonment for 6 months or a fine of up to $11,000 (or both) plus a further $5,500 fine each day the offence continues.
Restrictions around regional holidays and other activities remain in place.
Open Spaces and Skate Parks
Outdoor play and exercise equipment will be gradually unwrapped and re-opened to the community, allowing further exercise outlets for the community.
Council thanks everyone for understanding that the easing of restrictions and the removal of signage will take time.
When visiting public playgrounds and spaces in the Shoalhaven, residents are reminded to follow NSW Health social distance guidelines of 1.5 metres and remember the public gathering rule of no more than 10 still applies.
NSW Health advice is that when using outdoor exercise and playground equipment you should do so with caution by:
· Washing your hands before and after you use this equipment. Maintaining the practice of good personal hygiene by washing your hands and sanitising protects yourself and other community members.
· Assuming the person who has used the equipment before you has the virus
Bereavement Services
Our Bereavement Services will be able to accommodate indoor funerals of up to 20 mourners and up to 30 mourners attending outdoor funerals. The 1.5 metre social distancing guide will be adhered to for both indoor and outdoor services.
Bereavement Services will also continue to offer a private recording of the service, which can be shared with family and friends who could not attend the service due to the restrictions.
Sea Pools
Ulladulla and Huskisson Sea Pools have now reopened. Pool users are reminded when using the pool there can only be 10 people in the pool and outdoor area at any one time and social distancing needs to be implemented and adhered to in and out of the water.
To help reduce possible infection and transmission if the pool is already at capacity please try again later.
Bomaderry Aquatic Centre 50-metre Outdoor Pool
The 50-metre outdoor Bomaderry Aquatic has now re-opened. Due to the current level of restrictions, the Bomaderry indoor 25 metre pool will remain closed until further notice. Again, pool users are reminded when using the pool there can only be 10 people in the pool and outdoor area at any one time and social distancing needs to be implemented and adhered to in and out of the water.
Nowra Aquatic Park
Due to maintenance Nowra Aquatic Park will re-open on Monday 25 May 2020.
Please refer to https://shoalhavenssf.com.au/ for up to date information.
All other facilities remain closed, please see Council’s website for all closures. For any non-health questions about COVID-19 please contact the Service NSW COVID-19 hotline on 13 77 88.
