Gympie Regional Council Closely Monitoring Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The Gympie Region Local Disaster Management Group is now on Alert status due to the Novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Mayor Mick Curran, Disaster Management Committee Chair, said this was a preliminary step as it is important to be on the front foot and ready to provide support to the State Government and community where necessary.

“We don’t as yet know what the impact will be, however we need to be ready if and when we are called upon. Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of our community, and working together for the best possible outcomes, as we do in times of flood or fire.”

Mayor Mick Curran also reinforced the importance of the Queensland Department of Health advice and their lead on the issue, such as the cancellation of events of over 500 people.

“Council-run events, such as Easter on Mary, will be cancelled in line with the government’s decision regarding all non-essential gatherings of 500 people or more.

“We do know these cancellations will impact local traders and suppliers which is unfortunate but vital to ensure the safety and health of our community” said Mayor Curran.

Gympie Regional Council’s website will have a page which will update the community on any impact to Council services as a result of COVID-19.

“The Queensland Department of Health website is the central point of factual information and I would recommend anyone who is looking for further information regarding COVID-19 visit this site.” Said Mayor Curran

Gympie Regional Council senior executive staff are continuing to look at the potential impact of the Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the effects this may have on council and the community. Areas of consideration include critical service delivery, public facilities, staffing numbers and public events.

“At this stage it is business as usual, however we know that this can change overnight and we need to be prepared to ensure continuity of services for our community.” Gympie Regional Council CEO Bernard Smith explained.

“We are also looking at our future planning. It’s not a question of if, but when COVID-19 will have an impact on council resulting in changes to services. It is important that we have processes in place to ensure we deliver critical services for the community, and how we support our staff.”

“It’s very important to reinforce that at this stage, no core services are being impacted or reduced, however with the current environment we are in, this can change overnight.”

All customer services points across council, including the library, gallery and civic centre are open as per normal operating hours. For residents who may not wish to visit in person, residents can call council on 1300 307 800.

Council updates can be found gympie.qld.gov.au/covid19.

Anyone with concerns can call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or find up-to-date reliable information on the Queensland Health website at health.qld.gov.au/coronavirus