Chief urges residents to follow rules following “disappointing” gatherings

Colac’s local health chief is urging residents to follow coronavirus restrictions after reports of multiple local gatherings last weekend.

Colac Area Health chief executive Fiona Brew said the gatherings were a “disappointing occurrence” and the majority of the community was doing the right thing.

“We commend the leadership shown by Colac business leaders in speaking with their employees to make sure all public health advice is followed,” Ms Brew said.

“All agencies in Colac are working together with local business leaders to provide support and resources to keep the community safe and well.

“The Colac community is very resilient and we know that by working together, following public health advice and adhering to the restrictions we will be able to contain the spread of COVID-19. We also encourage the community to get tested, no matter how mild the symptoms,” she said.

Colac remains under Stage 3 restrictions and should only leave home for four reasons:

· to shop for food and necessary goods or services

· to provide care, for compassionate reasons or to seek medical treatment

· to exercise or for outdoor recreation

· for work or education, if you can’t do it from home

If you are in isolation support is available:

– Colac Community Help Line: 1800 512 424

– Colac Otway Shire: 5232 9400

Health authorities have offered accommodation to people who are unable to isolate in their households.