Plea to heed travel ban and consider regional resources

People are being urged not to travel to the Margaret River Region before the intrastate regional travel restrictions come into full effect at 12.01am on Tuesday 31 March 2020.

Augusta Margaret River Shire President Ian Earl said resources in the region were limited and people should consider the additional strain they will put rural hospitals.

“Our hospitals and emergency services cannot deal with an influx of people,” Cr Earl said.

“Our supermarkets cannot deal with an influx of people.

“So our message is clear. Please stay home and do not travel here,” he said.

Cr Earl warned against some visitors using the region as a haven to ride out COVID-19 restrictions.

 “We need to ensure the resources we do have can be directed at supporting the elderly and more vulnerable members of our community,” he said.

“Whilst we're a welcoming and inclusive community, we do need to put ourselves first on this occasion.

 “Visitors considering coming down here to ride out COVID-19 restrictions will be contributing to the strain on resources, so please do not come,” he said.

Shire Chief Executive Officer, Stephanie Addison-Brown said Shire Rangers had been facilitating cheaper rates for those living in campervans to secure temporary accommodation locally.

“We are actively asking people living in campervans to move into accommodation,” she said.

“Those without the financial means to pay for accommodation are being urged to go to Perth before the travel restrictions come into play, where there is more affordable accommodation available and greater health care resources.

Cr Earl called for calm, and for people to respect the Law and social distancing measures.

“I want to discourage any vigilante-style behaviour by residents, and for people to remain calm.

“We need to respect the rule of law. The Shire is not responsible for closing roads and enforcing road closures, this is the role of the State Government.  

“Please continue to practice social distancing as this is one of the best ways we can work together to slow the spread of this virus,” he said.

The travel ban is enforceable by police with fines up to $50,000.

More details about the intrastate travel ban and exemptions can be found at https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-the-premier-and-cabinet/covid-19-coronavirus-travel-and-transport-advice