GORCC reverses its decision to refuse caravan park bookings from coronavirus hotspots

THE Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC) has announced and reversed a decision to refuse bookings and cancel all existing bookings at its three caravan parks from people in the Melbourne coronavirus hotspots in the space of 24 hours.

In a statement on their website yesterday, GORCC said the policy “to protect the health and safety of our staff, visitors and coastal communities” at its Torquay, Anglesea and Lorne caravan parks would apply to all guests who live in the municipalities of Hume, Casey, Brimbank, Moreland, Cardinia and Darebin.

It was to be in effect until at least July 13, and would also apply to 12-month permit holders.

“We will not be lifting these restrictions until the Victorian Government advises that community transmission in these areas is under control,” GORCC stated.

However, this afternoon, a GORCC spokeperson said the committee would no longer refuse or cancel bookings from the six municipalities.

“We made the decision based on what we thought was best for our staff, guests and local communities.

“We have now updated our decision based on advice from the Chief Health Officer and will welcome all guests, including our Twelve Month Permit holders back into our parks.

“But please remember, if you feel unwell you should stay at home. If you have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), however mild, you should get tested. It’s up to all of us to make this work.”

GORCC’s decision and reversal comes in the wake of the state government’s identification of the coronavirus hotspots at the weekend and subsequent tightening of restrictions.

The committee had previously been progressively allowing use of elements of its caravan parks. All communal facilities were scheduled to reopen and camp sites for tents and caravans were to be available to book on Monday this week.