Richmond Shire Council says it is taking precautionary measures to minimise the impact of COVID-19 including the closure of its buildings for public gatherings.
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Mayor John Wharton said they were receiving daily updates from state and federal authorities and distributing information to the community such as hygiene, prevention methods, how to identify symptoms and other relevant information as it is received.
"At the moment there are no cases of COVID-19 in our Community nor are there any individuals requiring isolation due to COVID-19," Cr Wharton said.
"Public health is our main priority."
Effective from March 17 Council has implemented measures to encourage social distancing.
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All Council facilities and venues will be closed for a period of 30 days to organised social gatherings and all future bookings for these venues will also be unavailable for the foreseeable future.
Richmond Aged Care will carry out essential services only and all Centre Based Activities will be postponed for 30 days.
The Outside of School Hours Care Program will continue as normal as will the Library and Centrelink Hub.
Kronosaurus Korner and Moonrock Café will reduce trading hours from 9 am to 3pm.
The Lakeview Caravan Park and RV Park will remain open.
Council parks and reserves will also remain open for use, but large public gatherings and events are no longer permitted
"I understand the impacts Government restrictions have on our community and social events, however this is an unprecedented crisis and we must err on the side of caution to ensure our medical staff and facilities are not overwhelmed," Cr Wharton said.
Richmond Surgery Practice Manager Mandy Gillatt said they were encouraging people to remain in their cars until called into the surgery.
"This is to assist with social distancing within our small waiting area," Ms Gillatt said.
"Please phone ahead for an appointment, walk ins are discouraged".
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Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
