The Brimbank council has closed a number of non essential services in a bid to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Large facilities, including the Sunshine and St Albans leisure centres, council libraries, community centres and the Keilor basketball and netball stadium were all closed to the public at the close of business last Wednesday.
Changes were also made to maternal and child health services, with appointments switched to over the phone consultations. Only limited face-to-face appointments would be available.
Planned activity groups, council-run seniors groups and the hiring of council facilities has also been cancelled due to the high risk for elderly members of the community.
A number of council events have been either cancelled or postponed
Brimbank mayor Georgina Papafotiou said the situation called for drastic measures.
“Like many councils across Victoria, we’ve put in place a number of measures, ranging from cancelling events that would draw large numbers, to closing council facilities that are high traffic zones,“ she said.
“We’ve tried to strike a balance to ensure essential services can continue in a safe and responsible manner, and make sure supports are in place for the elderly and more vulnerable in our community.
“In such difficult circumstances, I would also ask people to look after themselves and their loved ones, take the advice of the health authorities and be patient as everyone works through what this challenging time means for them.“
Essential services, such as garbage collection, immunisation, meals delivery, personal care, roads and cleansing, parks maintenance, health and building inspections and customer service continue as normal.
Library members can still use the online library to request books and resources, and collect them from the libraries. The Home Library service will also continue, and a ‘Click and Collect’ service will be offered for library users.
For further information visit www.brimbank.vic.gov.au
