COVID-19 health alert on Northern Beaches extended

In line with NSW Health advice that from 5pm today, Saturday 19 December until midnight Wednesday 23 December, Public Health Orders will be in place for the Northern Beaches restricting the movement of residents to essential needs only, Council will continue to only operate essential services for the community at this time.

Residents are to remain in their homes unless to leave for essential needs, and visitors are advised to refrain from coming to the Northern Beaches, also unless for essential purposes.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council is complying with NSW Health’s Order and extending its temporary closures to protect the health of the community.

“Northern Beaches’ residents have been amazingly responsive to health restrictions applied from Friday, and attending COVID testing clinics in large numbers,” Mayor Regan said.

 “I thank everyone for taking this action that is so critical in order for NSW to manage the spread.

 “Remember to be prepared for a long wait in a testing queue, take food, water and any supplies. The testing teams are working around the clock but the wait times can be long, so be prepared.

 “It’s important we all continue with our vigilance.

 “We are extending our temporary closures until midnight Wednesday in the interest of everyone’s health and safety.

 “Please avoid non-essential travel, unless to go shopping, go to work, exercise or leave the house for compassionate reasons.

 “We all had to do this in March and so we know what to do.

 “And follow the recommendation and please wear a face mask when you need to.”

 Council will continue to maintain all essential services like waste collection, childcare, Meals on Wheels, road maintenance as well as customer service online and on the phone.

 Facilities and services which will be temporarily closed, Friday 18 Dec to Wed 23 Dec:

·         Customer service centres (online and phone available)

·         Skate parks and playgrounds

·         Community sporting activities in parks and reserves

·         Outdoor gyms

·         Manly and Warringah aquatic centres

·         All community centres

·         All libraries

·         Manly Art Gallery and Museum

·         Creative Space in North Curl Curl

·         Manly Visitor Information Centre

·         Kimbriki Buy Back Centre and the Eco House & Garden

·         Environmental centres and programs

·         The Aboriginal Heritage Office in Freshwater

·         Golf and tennis courts

·         All beaches will not have red and yellow flags but are maintaining a surveillance capability only in case of emergencies

 For information on Public Health Order restrictions on Northern Beaches residents, businesses and visitors, visit here.