Stay COVID safe when out & about in Wagga over the holidays

Published: 25 Sep 2020 4:07pm

It is a great time of year to get out and about in Wagga Wagga and visit its many attractions and beautiful parks and gardens.

Wagga Wagga City Council is reminding residents and visitors to be aware when they do head out to these public spaces that there are COVID restrictions in place.

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM said traditionally, the Spring school holidays see people head to places like the Wagga Beach and Wiradjuri Reserve, the Victory Memorial Gardens, Botanic Gardens, the Oasis Aquatic Centre and the Wagga Zoo & Aviary.

“While the weather is a little cool at the moment, we are still expecting to see a lot of people gathering outdoors with family and friends and visiting the local attractions, particularly with their children on holidays,” Councillor Conkey said.

“We’re also anticipating we’ll see a rise in visitor numbers as people from other regions look to have at least some kind of ‘getaway’ holiday.

“It makes it as important as ever to follow the rules on gatherings and social distancing and practice good hand hygiene.”

There will be different COVID guidelines at different locations within the LGA, and it is up to patrons to ensure they are aware of those differences and follow the direction of Council staff.

For example, the Wagga Zoo & Aviary has introduced a QR code sign in system which requires visitors to use their mobile phone to register their details to assist with contact tracing.

If you don't have access to a mobile phone, please fill out a Visitor Registration form on-line before you head to the Zoo.

Manager Parks and Strategic Operations Henry Pavitt said as part of its COVID safe measures, the Zoo conducts regular cleans and has hand sanitising stations located around the facility.

“We also have a limit of 250 on the number of people allowed entry at any one time,” Mr Pavitt said.

“Please be patient with staff if they are required to close the gates periodically until numbers reach the safe limit.
“In line with NSW Health, it is also recommended people wear a face mask during their visit.”

These measures coincide with the Zoo opening it gates seven-days a week over the school holiday period, from Saturday 26 September until Sunday 11 October.

No matter where you are these school holidays, please continue to exercise caution and take appropriate measures:

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly;
• Maintain a 1.5m physical distance;
• Wearing a face mask recommended;
• Stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

NSW Health and NSW Police are the State Government agencies which have jurisdiction over public gatherings as per the current Public Health Orders.

If you are feeling unwell or have any of the following symptoms - sore throat, cough, fever, or shortness of breath - get tested.
Call the Murrumbidgee COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 831 099.