Playgrounds and skateparks reopening

Published on 15 May 2020

Byron Shire Council is reopening playgrounds, outdoor gym equipment and skateparks following the decision by the NSW Government to ease some restrictions in NSW.

People do however need to remember that outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people and this applies to people using playgrounds, skateparks and fitness equipment.  Social distancing rules also apply.

Byron Shire Mayor, Simon Richardson, said the easing of restrictions was good news for parents and children, but people still need to heed the NSW Government’s rules.

“If you go to a playground and there are more than 10 people there – please leave and go back later,” Mayor Richardson said.

“For those of us with kids, we are getting agonisingly close to providing them some normality, so the last thing we want is to be in the situation where we have to shut everything again,” he said.

Staff are thoroughly cleaning all playgrounds for reopening but people need to take responsibility for their personal hygiene including washing hands before and after using play equipment. 

“The NSW Government is saying that people should assume the person who has used the equipment before them has COVID-19 so everyone needs to take responsibility and make sure they wash their hands and that of their children, and carry santiser as well,” Mayor Richardson said.

The Northern NSW Health District (NNSWHD) has announced there have been two more cases of COVID-19 detected in the region. 

The free COVID-19 clinic at the Byron Central Hospital is operating seven days a week and anyone with symptoms including a fever, sore throat, cough or shortness of breath is urged to get tested.  

“With the easing of restrictions and the detection of two more cases in the health district, which stretches from Grafton to Tweed, now more than ever, we need to remain vigilant and observe social distancing protocols and that means keeping 1.5m away from everyone except people in your household,” Mayor Richardson said.

UPDATE ON COUNCIL SERVICES AND FACILITIES

     Open but people need to note social distancing protocols.

     Open but only for people on their own. No groups are allowed and the bird hide and interpretive centre remain closed.

     Closed but staff are available via telephone and email. Call 6626 7000 or email [email protected].

     Closed until further notice.

     Closed to face-to-face customers but a ‘click and collect’ service is operating.  Go to www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au for information.

     Closed for the winter season.

Information about changes to Council’s facilities in relation to COVID-19 is available at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/covid-19.

For information on the NSW Government’s Public Health Order and the easing of restrictions go to www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

For media enquiries call Annie Lewis, Media and Communications Coordinator on 6626 7320.