MUSWELLBROOK Shire Council is taking action in the interest of the health and wellbeing of the community in response to the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The organisation closed all council-owned and operated facilities from Monday, March 23, to help keep residents safe in the face of the spreading threat of COVID-19.
That includes Muswellbrook and Denman libraries; Muswellbrook Aquatic Centre and Gym and Denman swimming pool; Muswellbrook Indoor Sports Centre; Muswellbrook Regional Art Centre; Denman Indoor Sports Centre; Denman Visitor Information Centre; Denman Memorial Hall; and Stan Thiess Centre.
"We have a duty of care to the community and staff," a council spokesperson said.
"So, we're committed to taking whatever action we can to prevent the spread of the virus in our region.
"We encourage our customers to connect remotely by using the Online Service Portal on council's website or by telephone on 6549 3700 during business hours.
"Phone first and staff may be able to assist without the need to come to the administration centre.
"Slowing down of the infection rate is a priority and the most effective approach is through 'social distancing', which includes avoiding crowds, meetings and gatherings, staying home if you are sick, working from home, giving people 'space' and, most importantly, practising good personal hygiene.
"Council is taking preventative measures within its operations to safeguard staff and the general public.
"Non-essential meetings will be cancelled or held online or by phone and staff are being told that they should not attend work if they have symptoms of cold or flu.
"Government restrictions now apply to non-essential indoor gatherings of 100 people or more and advice to stay away from non-essential outdoor gatherings of 500 or more people."
Further Information
- Easter Family Fun Day has been cancelled
- Council will no longer make the Denman Memorial Hall or Stan Thiess Centre available for hire
- Seasonal and organised sporting activities and event hire have been suspended at all sporting facilities and grounds until further notice
"These closures are consistent with Prime Minister Scott Morrison's announcement that all non-essential community spaces are to be closed," the spokesperson said.
"Council is currently working on a range of strategies to deliver services remotely or to vulnerable people and those in self-isolation."
