With the number of COVID-19 cases in the municipality rising, Horsham Rural City Council Mayor Robyn Gulline is encouraging everyone to stay patient, be understanding and to begin planning in the event that they contract COVID-19 or are required to isolate.
"We've seen already a number of businesses in the city that have had to reduce their hours because staff are either testing positive or are required to isolate," Cr Gulline said.
"This trend is likely to continue, so please be understanding, stay flexible and always be kind.
"There are practical things you can do now to make sure you have the things you need at home if you or your family need to isolate.
"Make sure you have a few days' supply of essential items, especially prescription medicines and talk to family, friends and neighbours about how you can support each other if one household has to isolate.
"If you have no way of getting help, please call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398. Alternatively, you can call Council on 53829747 and our staff will endeavour to connect you to a service that can help.
"Horsham and district led the charge when it came to getting vaccinated as early as possible and our high vaccination rates will give us the best possible chance of avoiding the most severe health impacts of COVID-19 so we are in a much better position to continue to live and work with COVID-19 in the community than we would have been previously.
"With so many of us getting vaccinated at the first opportunity, it means that booster shots are either due or will be soon. This is one of the best ways you can protect yourself, your family and your community, so please book in for your COVID-19 booster as soon as you are eligible.
"Continue to follow the COVID-safe principles of wearing a mask indoors, social distancing where possible and checking in wherever you go with the Services Victoria app.
"I'm proud that the Wimmera's capacity for community cooperation and compassion stands us in good stead during this time."
