With the first COVID-19 testing clinic in the Dungog Shire opening earlier today, Mayor of Dungog, Councillor John Connors, is urging all residents exhibiting symptoms to get tested to help stop the spread of COVID-19 into the Local Government Area.
"This is the time we need to come together as a community to protect each other against the growing COVID-19 concern in the Hunter region," says Mayor Connors.
"We are very pleased about the establishment of a COVID-19 testing facility here in our shire so residents no longer have to travel into other LGA's to be tested.
"I urge anyone, of any age, who is exhibiting any cold or flu-like symptoms to please get themselves tested to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community."
Mayor Connors further highlighted the vulnerability of the Dungog Shire due to the large number of commuters travelling to and from the area for work every day.
"Dungog Shire attracts people from all across the Newcastle, Hunter and Greater Sydney regions for work across multiple industries on a daily basis, as well as a high number of residences in the shire being used as second homes by people from these areas," adds Mayor Connors.
"This volume of people movement makes our community particularly vulnerable in this situation, making it all the more important for us to be compliant with the current Stay at Home Orders and be especially vigilant in our efforts to prevent the spread of this disease.
"One important reason you can leave your home for is to be tested for COVID-19."
Dungog's newly-opened testing facility is located at Dungog Bowling Club, 105 Abelard Street, Dungog. The centre is open 7 days between 8am - 6pm. It is open to all ages, with NO referral or appointment required.
The testing clinic is located in the Club's carpark, with entry from the Brown Street intersection only into Abelard Street. Further information can be found on council's Facebook page or on council's website.
For full details on the evolving COVID-19 situation in the Hunter region, visit the HNE Health Facebook page.
