“Following these rules is essential to save lives.<\/p>\n
“People will still be able to surf, swim, run, walk or exercise their dog, provided they strictly observe the social distancing rules. The closure applies to beaches being used as a gathering place so do not sit down or gather on the beach.<\/p>\n
“Council will also close a number of beach access roads and car parks in support of this decision.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Local politicians reacted with dismay at large crowds flaunting a clear directive from the state government during the coronavirus pandemic and congregating at beaches, including on the Surf Coast and the Bellarine Peninsula.<\/p>\n
Due to citizens refusing to take the Premier\u2019s message on board to protect those at most risk, the state government has given police officers the power to issue on the spot fines for individuals (of up to $1,652) and businesses who fail to comply with the Chief Health Officer and Deputy Chief Health Officer emergency directions, public health risk directions, or those who refuse or fail to comply with a direction by the Chief Health Officer to provide information.<\/p>\n
South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman shared a video on Facebook showing dozens of cars parked along the road leading towards Point Addis.<\/p>\n
“Who in their right mind would go to a beach during a pandemic?” he wrote.<\/p>\n
“We are all in this together. Please follow the advice of the Victorian Chief Health Officer. Stay at home.”<\/p>\n
He said anyone seen breaching the quarantine and closure requirements could be reported via the Police Assistance Line on 131444.<\/p>\n
On Twitter, Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson wrote she was pleased to see the police helicopter over 13th Beach this morning.<\/span><\/p>\n
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