26 March, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council’s response to the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to be guided by the latest advice from Commonwealth and State authorities.

According to NSW Health there are several cases in the New England North West area, including 7 confirmed cases in the Tamworth Regional Council area and additional cases in the Narrabri Shire and Liverpool Plains Shire. In light of this it is critical to observe all health and government advice to secure the health and safety of the community.

We all have a role to play in keeping ourselves and others safe. The federal and state government have made it clear that people should stay at home wherever possible, except to access essential products and services.

Anyone seeking the latest information on COVID-19 is encouraged to visit or call:

• NSW Health – www.health.nsw.gov.au
• Australian Government Department of Health – https://www.health.gov.au/
• Coronavirus Health Information Line - 1800 020 080

Today

• All of Council's face to face services remain closed until further notice, with the exception of the waste facilities and sale yards which are operating with strict hygiene practices and physical distancing measures.
• The NSW Government has advised of the cessation of camping in all NSW national parks from tomorrow, 27th of March.
• Local Land Services, the frontline agency in NSW helping farmers and communities, have established new systems to limit in-person contact and are conducting appointments online and over the phone. Local Land Services will continue to provide essential on-ground services, such as biosecurity and emergency management where safe and practical.

For a full list of changes to Gunnedah Shire Council services, visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au

Business Update

Yesterday the NSW Government enacted an extended operation order relating to retail trading and operating hours. The order allows for retail premises such as supermarkets, pharmacies and corner stores to operate 24 hours per day, providing retailers flexibility to ensure the community has access to essential supplies.

The Covid-19 pandemic is already having an adverse impact on many local businesses and it is now more important than ever to shop local. Council’s Economic Development team has issued the following tips for Gunnedah residents to help support our business community during this difficult time.

How to support your local businesses:

Take advantage of food delivery and takeaway services

• Take a night off from cooking to support local cafes and restaurants through the coming months.
• Call ahead to arrange a contact-free pickup, or if you’re working from home, find out if delivery is an option.

Go online

• Many Gunnedah businesses are taking their goods or services online so check to see if this is something your regular shop is now doing.
• Stay engaged and active with your local community by participating in online yoga workouts, gym classes, art workshops or singing tutorials that Gunnedah businesses are offering.

Social media support

• Help local Gunnedah businesses grow their social media presence by writing a positive review, inviting friends and family to like the business page and sharing their posts about updated trading.

Avoid refunds and postpone instead of cancelling

• While you may have the right to ask for a full refund if an event or workshop is cancelled, one way to support a local business is to see what other options they can offer, such as keeping your ticket for a rescheduled date or donating the price of the ticket to the business.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.