The City has joined with the Barwon Coast Committee of Management and Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of Management to implement a blanket closure of the nine boat ramps (seven ramps and two beach launches) in the municipality. Fish cleaning facilities are also closed.
Only commercial fishing is permitted.
The community is required to stay home unless they are accessing food and supplies; health care, work or education and limited daily exercise.
The boat ramp closures and recreational fishing restrictions are in line with the prohibited gatherings and non-essential activities directions, aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
The City encourages the community to abide by the restrictions and follow directives to stay home as much as possible.
Victoria Police has the authority to issue fines up to $1,652 for individuals and up to $9,913 for businesses who don't follow the directives.
Information about how the City is responding to the evolving coronavirus (COVID-19) situation can be viewed at www.geelongaustralia.com.au/covid19
Health-related advice and resources regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) can be found at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Barwon Coast Committee of Management manages the coastline from Collendina through to Blue Rocks, west of Barwon Heads.
Bellarine Bayside Coastal Management manages the coastline from Point Richards to St Leonards.
The following comments are to be attributed to the City of Greater Geelong Mayor, Steph Asher:
It's vital the City does its best to minimise the spread of coronavirus and the closure of the boat ramp and fish cleaning tables is part of those efforts.
The following comments are to be attributed to the City of Greater Geelong CEO, Martin Cutter:
To help limit the spread of coronavirus we have joined with Bellarine Bayside and Barwon Coast committees to close our boat ramps for recreational fishing.Everyone must take physical distancing seriously and this means no gathering at beaches and no recreational fishing. Again, we ask our community to stay home. For yourself, your family and for your community.