Premier Daniel Andrew's today announced the closure of swimming pools, gyms and indoor sporting facilities at midday.
In response, the City of Greater Bendigo has closed four swimming pools and the Long Gully Splash Park. Bendigo Stadium is also closed to all patrons, following the closure of the bistro and gaming room.
Separately, changes have been put in place to access Bendigo Animal Relief Centre (BARC) and the City is advising parents to consider whether to take their children to playgrounds these school holidays.
Swimming pools/indoor sports centres
Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre, Faith Leech Aquatic Centre, Peter Krenz Leisure Centre, Bendigo East pool, Long Gully Splash Park and Bendigo Stadium have closed.
Premier Daniel Andrews today advised pools and indoor sports centres are to close until April 13, but it is likely this date may be extended.
Faith Leech Aquatic Centre and the Long Gully Splash Park will now not reopen until next season.
Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre, Peter Krenz Leisure Centre and Bendigo East pool will be in touch with members to suspend memberships.
Faith Leech Aquatic Centre memberships will be suspended, with the remaining seven weeks of the season to be discounted from next season's ticket price.
Each aquatic facility will contact members individually. Members should not call the City of Greater Bendigo to arrange a refund.
BARC
Access to BARC is strictly by appointment. Pets can still be adopted and lost pets can be claimed, but residents must phone ahead to arrange a time to meet.
All adoption fees/lost pet infringements can only be paid over the phone. Cash will not be accepted at this time and arrangements will be put in place to limit contact between staff and members of the public when coming to adopt or reclaim a pet.
Residents that want to surrender a pet/s, are asked to please hold off from doing so unless it is an emergency and consider asking a friend or family member to help them until operations return to normal. If they must surrender a pet/s, they must contact BARC to make arrangements.
Playgrounds
In line with advice provided by the Premier today that these school holidays students are to stay home, the City advises parents to reconsider taking their children to playgrounds.
The City is not able to thoroughly deep clean these facilities and it can be a challenge for children to adhere to the recommended social distancing guidelines while playing.
If parents insist on taking their children to a playground, every effort will be made to supply soap in nearby toilets (for those playgrounds close to public toilets). Parents should also take hand sanitizer with them or soap and drink bottles for washing hands.
