Stay at home this Easter

7 April 2020

With the Easter long weekend upon us, the mayor of Inverell Shire, Paul Harmon is urging residents to stay at home to help curb further transmission of COVID-19.

“The message is clear – please stay at home this Easter,” Cr Harmon said.

“Right now, everyone needs to stay home unless they are going to work, education, shopping for food or essentials, seeking medical care, or exercising,” he said.

“Earlier today, Premier Berejiklian stated we’re at a critical point in the COVID-19 battle and how we handle the Easter long weekend will be pivotal in how the pandemic unfolds from here on.

“It’s important we stick to the rules to keep this highly contagious virus from infecting our loved ones and the more vulnerable members of our community”.

Residents are urged to cancel all visits from friends and family until further notice, including travel plans over the Easter long weekend.

While Cr Harmon believes many families will be devastated they cannot visit family or their favourite holiday destination this Easter, by staying put in their primary residence will help limit further transmissions.

“Easter is normally a busy weekend in Inverell Shire with lots of visitors in town to celebrate with friends and family, but this year things will have to change,” Cr Harmon said.

Cr Harmon echoed the comments of Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, who stated traditionally, rural NSW welcomes visitors to our regions, however, now is the time to put the safety of our community and frontline health care workers at the forefront.

“Currently, there are three recorded cases of COVID-19 in our shire. We’re asking community members to follow the government restrictions and please do not visit regional NSW this Easter to ensure we can keep it this way.”

Under Federal and State Government guidelines, if residents do go out, they must stay at least 1.5 metres away from other people at all times. Public gatherings have also been limited to two people, excluding members of the same household or for work or education.

The latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic can be found at www.health.gov.au.

View the latest News Alert from the Mayor regarding current measures Council is taking in regards to COVID-19.

For further information contact:
Fiona Adams | Inverell Shire Council | PO Box 138, Inverell NSW 2360 | 02 67288288 | Fiona.Adams@inverell.nsw.gov.au