Chief Inspector Dave Cooper wants to again reassure the Parkes community that we stand ready to respond to the COVID-19 crisis.
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As Local Emergency Operations Controller he has been in daily teleconference contact with key stakeholders including Parkes Shire Council and NSW Health.
"I have been in daily contact with our local people and have participated in weekly teleconference updates from the State and Region level," he said.
"As it stands, we have one confirmed COVID-19 case in the Parkes Local Government Area. We continue to monitor returned travellers who are self-isolating.
"We cannot be complacent - good social distancing and hygiene practices will keep us ahead of the game.
"As I said earlier, the community needs to step up and take responsibility and do our bit to stop the spread of this virus. I have noticed a huge shift in community attitude - it's been very heartening.
"I really want to give our local health professionals at Parkes Hospital a big shout out - they are working as hard as anyone through this crisis to make sure the rest of us stay safe. If you get the opportunity please thank them".
- Chief Inspector Dave Cooper
"I really want to give our local health professionals at Parkes Hospital a big shout out - they are working as hard as anyone through this crisis to make sure the rest of us stay safe. If you get the opportunity please thank them."
It's business as usual for Parkes Police, with officers' workloads increasing around COVID-19 taskings.
But Chief Inspector Cooper said they have not seen a spike in any other crime categories.
"However, as the consequences of staying at home start to impact, we are concerned for those suffering domestic violence and other personal crimes," he said.
"If you are the victim of violence of any sort please ring us; please reach out to friends and family or support services. We will respond and we will listen.
"I urge residents to continue to observe the federal and state government directions and advice; continue to observe social distancing principles and wash your hands.
"Please don't go anywhere or leave your home unless absolutely necessary.
"I would also really like to encourage everyone to support your local businesses during this tough time.
"If it can be sourced locally please buy locally. Our small businesses need whatever support we can provide them now so that they can survive past this," Chief Inspector Cooper said.
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Parkes Shire Council Local Emergency Services Officer Andrew Francis added: "Local charities and care providers are working with local businesses to ensure that critical food deliveries and other supplies are reaching those that need them".
"They continue to rely on the community's support as most of their regular volunteers are over 70 and high risk," he said.
Parkes Health Service Manager Liz Mitchell has a simple message for everyone: "Please, please stay home if you don't need to go out and if you must go out for essentials, please use social distancing and wash your hands often".
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