March 18, 2020

Following our initial update yesterday, Gunnedah Shire Council is continuing to review health advice regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and has put in place changes to meet guidelines for public safety. Gunnedah Shire Council general manager Eric Groth said Council was continuing to monitor the NSW Health site www.health.nsw.gov.au and liaising with other government agencies to ensure a best practice response.

Gunnedah Shire residents are encouraged to make Council payments online and use phone or email for any Council Enquiries. Where possible, please phone Council (02) 6740 2100 prior to presenting to the office in person.

These interim measures are in line with state and federal government advisories restricting non-essential indoor gatherings of more than 100 people, outdoor gatherings of more than 500 people and social distancing of 1.5m between people at all times.

Changes to Council Services:

Council Facilities:

Any sporting groups, service clubs and other community organisations that need to cancel or postpone events at a Council facility due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation are asked to update Council about these changes. This will ensure an up to date record of facility use is maintained.

Justice of the Peace services at the Gunnedah Shire Library have been ceased.

Services at the Gunnedah Saleyard will continue following advice from industry body the Australian Livestock & Property Agents Association (ALPA). The ALPA have emphasised the critical role of livestock auctions in the supply chain, and listed recommendations to minimise risk which Council will implement. In particular:

• It is strongly recommended non-essential participants, the general public and people who may be more susceptible to COVID-19 due to factors such as age and respiratory conditions do not attend livestock auctions.
• Anyone who does attend should maintain social distancing, refrain from shaking hands and ensure they maintain hygienic practices.
• These measures will be reviewed pending further advice from the ALPA or direction from the relevant Government body.

Community members are reminded not to visit any council facilities if:

• They are showing any signs of a cold or other illness, even if not COVID-19 related
• They are currently self-isolating due to illness, overseas travel or close contact with someone with Covid-19 or who is being quarantined.

Additional Event Cancellations:

Council has also been advised by the relevant community organisations of changes to the following events:

• Cancellation of Rotary West Debutante Ball
• Cancellation of the Catholic Debutante Ball
• The RSL has cancelled all upcoming ANZAC Day Ceremonies
• Cancellation of the 2020 Gunnedah Show
• Cancellation of Weeks of Speed events on Saturday 21st of March, including the Street Parade, Show ‘N’ Shine and activities at Gunnedah Speedway.
• Cancellation of Country Music Muster 24th to 28th March
• Gunida Gunyah has made the decision to close the Pool Kiosk. This will take effect from today.

For other community events held by other groups in the community, please continue to refer to the organisers.

For further information about COVID-19, visit www.health.nsw.gov.au 

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.