
Parkes Shire Council is implementing a number of precautions at its public facilities to ensure the safety of the community and visitors, following a report of a possible COVID-19 case in Parkes.
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Western NSW Local Health District is investigating a case of COVID-19 in the local government area it said earlier today.
With the person in isolation, it has not yet been confirmed if the case is positive.
In the meantime further testing and investigation is underway to verify the diagnosis and a drive through COVID-19 testing clinic has been set up at Northparkes Oval.
It will be operating from 9am-5pm tomorrow, Thursday, September 3 and Friday, September 4.
In its response to the evolving situation, council has made changes at a number of its facilities that will take place from close of business today.
"We all have a role to play in protecting our community and keeping each other safe," Mayor Cr Ken Keith OAM said.
"Residents are urged not to panic, follow NSW Health advice, and above all, get tested and self-isolate if you have symptoms.
"It's also important to ensure that the information we are sharing is accurate and clear, and that we don't fall prey to online speculation.
"For the latest information and advice about our region, head to the Western NSW Local Health District website or follow them on Facebook and Twitter."
Parkes Shire Council Administration Centre
Council's administration counter will continue to operate at a reduced capacity, 10am until 4pm daily.
Customers will be requested to sign-in and sanitise upon entry.
Customers are urged to phone or use the online portals to transact where possible. Additional staff will be redeployed to support customer phone and online enquiries. Phone 6861 2333 or email council@parkes.nsw.gov.au.
Council's Planning & Environment customer service counter will be closed to walk up inquiries, however the customer service team will continue to process enquires over the phone (6861 2373) and via email plans@parkes.nsw.gov.au.
To track the status of an existing customer request, development application and planning certificates, head to the MyParkes portal. The portal also allows you to pay your rates, water and accounts online, browse development activity in the shire and lodge requests and applications to council.
Parkes Visitor Information Centre and Henry Parkes Centre
The Visitor Information Centre and museums will be closed to the public.
The tourism staff will be available during normal operating hours to answer emails and phone enquiries. To contact the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, phone 6862 6000 or visit www.visitparkes.com.au/parkes-visitor-information-centre/
Parkes Shire libraries
Parkes Shire Library branches will be closed to the public. All programs, activities and face-to-face borrowing will be suspended until further notice. The range of online resources will remain available and can be accessed at any time from the library section on council's website. To contact the library please, phone 6861 2309 or email library@parkes.nsw.gov.au.
Parkes Regional Airport
The airport terminal will be closed outside of scheduled flight times. The terminal will open for 45 minutes either side of arrival and departure flights.
Parkes Animal Shelter
Parkes Animal Shelter will be closed to visitors. The drop-off boxes are still available. Animal release will be by appointment only, phone 6861 2373.
Central West Family Daycare
The Central West Family Daycare office will be closed to visitors. Playgroups and home visits have been suspended temporarily. To contact the Central West Family Daycare team, phone 6862 3111.
Health facilities
Western NSW Local Health District has also put in place temporary visitor restrictions at Parkes and Forbes hospitals, Condobolin Hospital, and Trundle, Tullamore, Tottenham, Peak Hill and Eugowra Multipurpose Services.
Aged care facilities have also introduced temporary visitor restrictions.
For the latest updates related to Parkes Shire Council's COVID-19 measures, click here.
For the latest NSW COVID-19 news and advice, visit the NSW Health website.
Residents displaying symptoms, no matter how mild they are, or have potential contact to the known case, they should get tested immediately and self-isolate for 14 days.
To help stop the spread of COVID-19:
- If you are unwell stay in, get tested and isolate
- Wash your hands regularly
- Take hand sanitiser with you when you go out
- Keep your distance. Leave 1.5 metres between yourself and others
- Wear a mask in situations where you cannot physically distance
For more information, visit the Western NSW Local Health District website.