Council will start removing closure signs at playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor gyms as they begin to reopen across Colac Otway Shire from today, Tuesday 26 May 2020, as some state government restrictions ease.
Other Council facilities will start to reopen from June 1 or June 22, as the easing of state government restrictions allow.
Current restrictions in place allow a maximum of 10 people to play on the equipment at any one time and then from 1 June, a maximum of 20 people can play at any one time.
Council's Chief Executive Peter Brown said Council would undertake regular cleaning of high use playgrounds and it was important for the community to take a proactive role in protecting their own health and safety and that of their children.
"We encourage parents and carers to clean any play equipment before and after use, as well as other hygiene practices such as washing hands or using hand sanitiser.
"While restrictions are easing, and we're growing accustomed to this 'new normal', it's more important than ever for our community to understand what the new restrictions are and to do what they can to protect themselves and others.
"Our Colac Otway community has put in a lot of hard work to slow the spread of coronavirus, and it's important to not become complacent as restrictions slowly start to ease.
"There are around 30 playgrounds throughout Colac Otway Shire, and it makes sense for every member of the community to be aware of minimising risk of the transmission of any infections or virus.
"It may be as simple as making it a part of the family routine - when you visit playgrounds, along with popping on sunscreen and a hat, that you take a packet of disinfectant wipes to clean down playing surfaces too.
"Before you head home, wipe down areas of play equipment that were used.
"If we continue to work together, and look out for each other, we will be well on the way to lifting further restrictions and getting to enjoy more of the activities we've missed these past few weeks."
Council's Local Laws and Community Safety Officers will be monitoring playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor gyms to ensure the maximum number of people per facility is not exceeded.
Colac Otway Shire Council is also currently working through State Government advice to determine how restrictions can be implemented to reopen facilities.
"The government has announced when a majority of Council facilities which were closed in response to COVID19 can reopen," Mr Brown said.
"However, the government also has in place strict requirements and restrictions which Council needs to comply with in order to reopen facilities to keep the community and staff safe.
"Bluewater pool and the gym hope to reopen as relevant restrictions ease, however Council is currently working through the requirements and how they will be implemented.
