Remember…we are on hols but COVID-19 isn’t

Published on 02 October 2020

With the long weekend upon us, school holidays in full swing and Queenslanders able to travel further south, the Byron Shire is expected to be busy. 

Visitors and locals are being reminded that it is important to be mindful of the COVID-19 precautions that are in place.

Byron Shire Mayor, Simon Richardson, said social distancing still remains the key message for everyone.

“We all need to remember that we may be on holidays but COVID-19 isn’t,” Mayor Richardson said.

“Keeping 1.5m apart from others in public areas such as our beaches and parks is really important because the last thing we want is for people to flout the rules and the State Government be left with little choice but to reinstate harsher rules,” he said.

“Our local Police and Council staff are working incredibly hard to ensure our community remains safe and that people and businesses are complying with the rules and we know our community is very appreciative of their efforts.

“With this weekend being the first real taste of summer it is important that people know that the NSW Health Orders stipulate that there be no social gatherings of more than 20 people and this applies in residential properties and holiday accommodation as well,” Mayor Richardson said.

A mobile COVID-19 testing clinic has been set up in Dening Park near the Byron Bay Surf Club for the school holiday period.

“Anyone with flu-like symptoms should get tested immediately – the service is free so there is no reason not to,” Mayor Richardson said.

The mobile clinic at Dening Park is operational on Saturday 3 October and from 5 – 11 October.

Testing is also available at the nearby Byron Central Hospital, 9am – 5pm, seven days a week.

For media enquiries contact Annie Lewis, Media and Communications Coordinator, on 02 6626 7320.

For interviews contact Byron Shire Mayor, Simon Richardson, on 0427 076 834 or Deputy Mayor, Michael Lyon, on 0435 646 365.