It has been unnaturally quiet at Mount Isa PCYC but the noise will kick off again next week when its gym re-opens its doors.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Like everywhere else it's been tough going in the pandemic but they can reopen after Queensland eased restrictions last week and fitness fanatics will be allowed in from next Monday.
It will a welcome reprieve for PCYC manager Sgt Bernadette Strow who reflected on turbulent times.
"It was sudden when we had to close our doors and unfortunately we had to lay off two staff off and that was heart-wrenching," Sgt Strow said.
"But we were fortunate we were able to be active with our programming, we've got an Indigenous sport and rec officer here and we have a youth support officer and they were able to continue."
Sgt Strow said they had to think outside the square to remain involved in the community.
"We were involved in Meals on Wheels and helping some of the elderly from the Laura Johnson Home and we've continued with the kids to get across that COVID message about not congregating,and our Outside School Hours continued," she said.
"But behind the doors we've been able to have a step back and refresh so when we do reopen on June 15 our facility is nice and clean and fresh."
Sgt Strow said they will be restarting with gym only with strict COVID safe plan.
"There will be only 20 people under the roof at any time and that means 45 minute sessions which our members can book online and we will be open 6-10am and 4-9pm Monday to Friday and on the weekends we are only open on Saturday at this stage 7-10am and 3-5pm. And we will be open Show Day public holiday (Friday June 19) but with Saturday hours," she said.
"Our staff will do a 15 minute clean before the next session starts and once a day we will do a thorough clean of the premises. Members should bring their own towels and water bottles and they will be required to wipe down the equipment after they use it."
In order to provide their full range of services, they need to wait till the last stage of restrictions ease which is currently scheduled for mid July.
"Stage 3 will hopefully allow us to restart group fitness activities and more youth engagement," Sgt Strow said.
While you are here subscribe to our weekly email to your inbox every Tuesday and Friday
