Playgrounds, skate parks and outdoor fitness equipment will be reopened for use across Surf Coast Shire from tomorrow in line with further relaxation of Victorian Government COVID-19 regulations.
Up to 10 users will be permitted to access the facilities at one time, provided they maintain 1.5m physical distancing and observe COVID-Safe hygiene measures.
Council is also preparing for gradual opening of other public facilities from 1 June, pending individual COVID-Safe review of each site.
“Based on the advice of the Premier and Chief Health Officer, we will be pleased to be taking further steps out of restrictions,” Chief Executive Officer Keith Baillie said.
“Noting the change in the Premier’s message from Stay ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ to Stay Safe, we welcome the opportunity for people and particularly families to be able to access more of our outdoor facilities.
“But with that use comes great responsibility, and we urge everyone to take particular care observing hygiene and spacing guidelines. They are essential elements of our ‘new normal’.”
Victoria remains in a State of Emergency until 31 May.
Gathering limits at playgrounds, skate parks and fitness equipment are scheduled to increase to 20 users from 1 June, with distancing measures in place.
Council will also roll out COVIDSafe signage across the shire amplifying the government’s new Stay Safe messaging.
Mr Baillie said opening of other Council facilities from 1 June would be cautiously managed.
The list includes community buildings, galleries, museums and youth centres.
“People should not assume everything will be open from that day. We have many precautions to work through to ensure that our staff and users are in COVIDSafe environments,” Mr Baillie said.
“We will be working closely with user organisations to ensure that they have appropriate plans in place.”
With students returning to school tomorrow under modified arrangements, Council has also extended crossing supervisor shifts to allow for staggered hours.
