As COVID-19 continues to spread further into regional NSW, the Federal and State Governments have introduced even stricter measures to contain the virus.
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Although Parkes has no confirmed cases, the Mayor is imploring the community to adhere to the additional measures in order to minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19.
"Social distancing means we reduce the number of close physical and social contacts we have with one another which will lead to reducing the spread of COVID-19. If it is possible to stay home, please do - especially if you are in one of the at-risk categories.
"If you need to go out, make sure that you keep 1.5m between yourself and others & avoid crowds and gatherings. Remember that good hygiene is in your hands! Don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to prevent passing on germs and use hand sanitiser," says the Mayor.
The additional measures the Parkes Shire Council are implementing include:
- Increasing the amount of servicing for public amenities
- No access to outdoor recreation equipment
- Closure of all Shire sporting complexes and public halls
- Restricting visitors at Spicer Caravan Park to permanent residents only
- Closure of tourist attractions and historic sites
- Restricting the method of payment at the Council office to EFT
- Closure of campgrounds in Bogan Gate and Bogan Weir
- Postponement of free tip weekend at Parkes and Peak Hill rubbish tips
- No public walk-ins at Planning & Environment office
From Tuesday an individual can now be fined $11,000 or be sent to jail for six months, or both, for leaving their home without a "reasonable excuse". Corporations that fail to comply with a direction are liable to a fine of $55,000 and $27,500 each day the offence continues.
In order to clarify just what is and isn't allowed, the government has a list of what they will accept as a "reasonable excuse." Some of these include:
- Obtaining food or other goods and services for the household or vulnerable people
- Travelling for work, childcare or school if not possible at home
- Exercising (while adhering to social distancing)
- Obtaining medical care or supplies
- Attending a wedding with no more than 5 people present
- Attending a funeral with no more than 10 people present
- Moving to a new place of residence
- Providing care or assistance to a vulnerable person
For the full list see: Can I walk my dog, go to the shops, pick up the kids without risking an $11,000 fine?
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