New exposure sites, three active cases

THERE are currently three active cases of COVID-19 in Ballarat listed on the State Government’s Department of Health website.

They come as Premier Daniel Andrews announced today the City of Ballarat would be heading back into a seven-day lockdown from 11.59pm tonight, just a week after restrictions eased in regional Victoria.

As of 7pm there is one new tier one listed site, the Clarendon College Early Learning Centre between 8.15am and 9am on Friday, 10 September.

Tier one exposure sites include The Lake View Hotel at 22 Wendouree Parade, Lake Wendouree on Friday, 10 September between 9.45am and 11.30am.

The Forge Pizzeria at 14 Armstrong Street North is also listed as an exposure site between 2.50pm and 3.30pm on Saturday, 11 September as well as Big W at Greenville and Curtis streets between 4.45pm and 5.30pm on Friday, 10 September.

A new tier two exposure site is 5AB Homes Ballarat, FABulously BUILT, Unit 8/18 Coronet Street, Wendouree on Thursday, 9 September between 9.50am and 5pm.

For a full list of exposure sites visit bit.ly/3Chfje2.

Ballarat Health Services requests residents that have visited a tier one or two site or are showing symptoms such as a headache, fever, sore throat, and loss of smell or taste to present for testing.

“As a city, we are well prepared for a COVID-19 outbreak, and as a city we need to remain calm,” acting CEO Melanie Robertson said.

“As the public health service, I can assure the community that we are well prepared, and we need everyone to follow the advice that will continue to keep us safe.

“Getting vaccinated as soon as possible is a priority. We need Ballarat to reach 80 per cent first and second doses so we can end these lockdowns.

“While you’re at home make your vaccination booking, if you’re due for your second dose don’t put it off.”

For changes to Ballarat Health Services visitor restrictions head to bhs.org.au/covid.

Drive-through testing is available at Marty Busch Reserve, Sebastopol with no appointment required from 9am to 6pm.

Testing is also available at 4Cyte Pathology Ballarat COVID-19 Collections at 630 Skipton Street, Redan from 8am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 1pm Sunday.

The UFS respiratory clinic is doing COVID-19 testing by appointment only, with bookings available at ufs.com.au/test.

V/Line disruptions will continue tomorrow and in the coming days due to seven drivers testing positive, causing about 300 staff to isolate.

A limited number of morning peak services will continue to operate on the Ballarat line, with additional afternoon peak services.

For a full list of changes to Ballarat restrictions click here.