The Queensland State Government has released a roadmap to easing COVID-19 restrictions that took effect from midnight last night.
A Southern Downs Regional Council spokeswoman said the first stage of easing of restrictions will mean the following will be allowed for residents of the Southern Downs –
• Gatherings of a maximum of 10 people together in a public space
• Dining in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, RSLs and cafes for a maximum of 10 patrons at one time as part of a gradual re-opening (no bars or gaming)
• Recreational travel of a radius of up to 150km from your home for day trips
• Some beauty therapies and nail salons for up to 10 people at one time
• Reopening of libraries. Playground equipment, skate parks and outdoor gyms (a maximum of patrons 10 at one time)
• Wedding guests increased to 10 people and funeral attendance increased to 20 (30 outdoors)
• Open homes and auctions with a maximum of 10 people at one time
“Residents are encouraged to check with individual business before leaving home, as not all businesses will be reopening immediately,” the council spokeswoman said.
Mayor Vic Pennisi said the easing of restrictions “is thanks to residents’ quick uptake of social distancing protocols and adherence to COVID-19 restrictions”.
“Council would like to once again thank residents for their patience, dedication and compassion through these difficult times,” Cr Pennisi said.
“The easing of restrictions is made possible by residents’ adherence to social distancing and safety protocols and as restrictions ease, please don’t forget the importance of remaining vigilant.”
• Which council services are re-opening…
The spokeswoman said the council has a range of services and facilities that will re-open on Monday, 18 May.
“The Warwick, Stanthorpe and Allora libraries will reopen on Monday morning and our library staff are keen to see their patrons again and are looking forward to opening our doors to help share the love of reading again face to face,” she said.
“During these initial phases of reopening of the libraries, Council will continue to provide the home delivery service to our community so as to minimise the number of people having to physically visit the libraries.
“Patrons will be restricted to the State set limit of 10 at a time.
“Council Officers will help with managing this and we appreciate your understanding of the need to comply with social distancing management.
“Council will also reopen its Customer Service Centres on Monday in Warwick, Stanthorpe and Allora – Customer Service Centres will be open from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
“Social distancing measures will be implemented to ensure best practice occurs for the safety of our customers and staff.
“Although our centres will be open we continue to encourage the use of Council’s online services.
“From (today) Saturday 16 May council will also reopen the following facilities:
• Parks
• Public toilets
• Outdoor playgrounds
• Skate parks
• Barbecue facilities
“We know many families and young children especially will be excited to visit and use our playground facilities – please keep in mind social distancing and the State set limit of 10 patrons at a time for all of these facilities” Cr Pennisi said.
“Council’s local laws officers will be on hand to help make sure the limits are met so the community can safely enjoy these facilities and activities again.
“Swimming pools, which would normally be shut for winter, will remain closed (including Stanthorpe, Killarney and Allora).
“Further details on when WIRAC will reopen will be discussed with the lease holder and more details will be released soon.”
• FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT – www.sdrc.qld.gov.au
