Shire President Health Update on COVID-19

Published: Saturday, 14 March 2020 at 5:12:20 PM

The Shire of Coolgardie has been closely monitoring information about COVID-19 being provided through a range of health providers and government agencies.

Late on Friday, 13 March 2020, the CEO and other Senior Level Staff were part of a high-level meeting convened by the WA Health Department providing an update for the management and response to COVID-19.  The discussions surrounded the involvement of local government in implementing public health actions to support and protect our communities.

Information was also provided about the illness and transmission of coronavirus which reiterated the importance of hand washing and hygiene. At the meeting, WA Health indicated it is still finding out facts about the virus and understanding the risks to ensure a proportionate response is implemented.

The Shire has updated its action plan to address how it will continue to provide services to its community in this rapidly evolving situation. The Shire is also continuing to monitor Federal and State communications.  We will update our Plan to ensure it aligns with the advice and directives given by National Chief Medical Advisors.

The Shire will continue to release further information to the community as it becomes available – it is my commitment that this will be provided to you in a timely and transparent manner.

As you will be aware, the Chief Medical Advisor for Australia, Brendan Murphy, recently advised both State and Federal Governments at the COAG meeting to ban any mass gatherings of over 500 people. 

Whilst it has not yet been declared, we have seen at a National and State level an immediate response to prevent mass gatherings at events including the cancellation of Formula One, no spectators at AFL and last night’s NBL finals playoff.  This is an unprecedented public response to anything I have ever seen in my life.

In light of these actions, the Shire also took immediate steps to manage public health risk.  These actions have included the commencement of professional cleaning of our Recreation facilities and liaison with event organisers. The Shire is closely working with the relevant agencies in keeping open as many of our facilities as possible.

I am sure residents would be asking about the Kambalda Aquatic Facility opening scheduled for 29 March 2020.  As the opening is anticipated to attract over 500 people, we are continuing to monitor government advice and will keep you advised of any decisions made.

I am monitoring the Department of Health’s website (www.health.wa.gov.au)  to keep informed and encourage all residents to do the same. The Shire will provide information to our community as it becomes available. 

During the weekend, I am anticipating that further information will be provided to the Shire and we will update the community early next week on what that means to Shire operations and services to our community.

Regards,

Malcolm Cullen

Shire President

14 March 2020

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