Coronavirus update: Geelong beaches to close at midnight

ALL beaches in the City of Greater Geelong will be closed for public gatherings from midnight tonight, in line with the latest directions from the Australian and Victorian governments.

The city joined with the Barwon Coast Committee of Management and Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of Management to implement a blanket closure for public gatherings across the municipality.

The national cabinet agreed, on Sunday, to restrict both indoor and outdoor gatherings to people living in the same household or two persons only.

The community is required to stay home unless they are getting access to food and supplies, health care, work or education, or limited daily exercise.

The beach closures are in line with the prohibited gatherings and non-essential activities directions, aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus.

The city encourages the community to abide by the closures 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 situation can be viewed at geelongaustralia.com.au/covid19.

Health-related advice and resources regarding coronavirus can be found at 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.

“We all love a day at the beach, but in these circumstances it’s no longer an option, so we support our foreshore committees Barwon Coast and Bellarine Bayside in deciding to close beaches for gatherings,” Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said.

“The health and safety of the community must be the top priority.

“Exercise is still permitted, so as long as you’re still moving it’s okay to use the beach to walk, swim or run. What is not allowed is spending time on the beach sitting, sunbaking or gathering in groups of more than two.

“With Victoria now moving to a stage three shutdown, we urge everyone to follow the advice of authorities by staying home as much as you possibly can. If we all take personal responsibility, we can save many lives. Please do the right thing for yourselves, your families and the community as a whole.”