WE are in an unprecedented situation attempting to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The situation and messaging from the state and federal governments is changing daily and I totally understand this could be confusing for some of our more senior residents.
If I can assist in any way, please call me on 0428 543 693.
Council has a raft of information and resources that can be passed on.
Council and staff are working closely with stakeholders in the community including the Medical Centre, MPS, Oberon Pharmacy, aged care facility, police and ambulance services and industry leaders.
It is so important in this time of stress and worry in our community that we have a co-ordinated approach.
The Oberon Pharmacy has in place new opening hours which are 7.30am to 6pm weekdays, 9am to 1pm Saturdays and 9am to 11am Sundays. Please note that the shop will be closed between 1pm and 1.30pm weekdays for cleaning.
As we are hearing often, self-isolation is key to controlling this virus, but with that can come social isolation, especially within our senior community, so I urge everyone to check on your neighbours and make that phone call every day or so just to check in with family and friends.
Keep abreast of the latest news and updates, be careful and sensible, but do not let it take over your life; do something pleasant and cheerful every day and don't forget to exercise a little, even if it is just walking around the garden and pulling a few weeds.
It is unfortunate but necessary that we need to close all playgrounds and the skate park until further notice.
If your children are out for exercise during school holidays, please ensure they are aware of these restrictions as they are enforceable by the police, who now have legislative powers to enforce social distancing rules (no more than two people gathered at any time) and to also ensure folk who should be confined to home due to exposure to the virus do so.
These powers also include the ability to act in cases of unnecessary travel that is not exempt.
This is a very tough time for local businesses, many of which have had to close; the ripple effect of this is that some folk may now be unemployed.
This brings a separate set of issues into play. There is good government assistance out there for both the businesses and the workers.
If you need information on assistance available or the latest in COVID-19 measures, then Service NSW has a 24 hour assistance line: 13 77 88.
If you think you may be developing early virus symptoms, you can ring the Western District Local Health District for advice on 1300 066 055 or 1800 022 000. Operators will direct you on what to do next.
The best way we can assist as a community is to buy local where we are able.
I know many local individuals and organisations are supporting the community in a variety of ways. I sincerely thank you for these acts of kindness. If you need support in these endeavours, please contact me.
At the time of writing this article (Tuesday March 31), Oberon has no confirmed cases of the virus.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro has issued a plea for city folk not to travel to the regions in search of holiday accommodation and/or activities such as mushrooming.
It's wise advice which, while realising the value of tourism to our town, especially after fire and drought, advice I wholeheartedly endorse.
It is up to us all to think of the consequences of our actions and be responsible.
We need to encourage our city-dwelling friends and families to make the tough call and not visit.
I know this is hard as I personally have three gorgeous new great-grandchildren that I may not see for a few months.
I hope all community members stay well and look after themselves and others.
