By Mitchell Clarke
Two popular council facilities have reopened to the public, as the State Government announces the gradual easing of strict Covid-19 restrictions.
Cardinia Shire Council announced the closure of Emerald Lake Park and Mount Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve would be lifted from Wednesday 13 May and Saturday 16 May, respectively.
It’s not quite a complete return to normality just yet, with the council forced to introduce a one-way only walking track at the popular reserve, as new directional signage was also installed throughout the park.
Cardinia Shire Council mayor Jeff Springfield said visitors must continue to maintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres.
In line with State Government advice, people must not gather at the parks in groups of more than 10 people.
“I encourage everyone to continue doing the right thing by following the gathering and physical distancing rules while out and about to help protect yourself and others,” Cr Springfield said.
“Please continue to stay safe, take care, and look after yourselves and others.”
Playgrounds, BBQs and outdoor gym equipment at Emerald Lake Park remain closed, as do the paddle boats, model railway and the Emerald Museum. Nobelius Heritage Park is open.
Casual bookings for weddings, funerals and gatherings in council outdoor spaces and recreation reserves can now be made, provided they meet guidelines.
Cardinia Shire Council was pleased to make the announcement that the “highly valued” space would be reopened, Cr Springfield said.
“We understand that open space areas such as Emerald Lake Park are very important to our community … It’s a much-loved destination that is popular with locals and visitors alike,” he said.
“We know that people have missed being able to visit the park and are no doubt looking forward to being able to return to enjoy a leisurely walk, a brisk run, a bike ride or just to take in its natural beauty.”
The parks were temporarily closed from 3 April in response to the pandemic, however that didn’t stop everyone from flouting the rules. As previously reported by the Gazette, locked gates which restricted access to Mount Cannibal were pushed over, as some disregarded blatant and clear signs to stay away.
The majority of the community continue to follow the stay at home guidelines, the council said.
“Our community has been doing a fantastic job throughout these challenging times,” Cr Springfield said.
“I’m proud of the great work people are doing in following the physical distancing guidelines, and I thank you for your continued efforts.”
Cardinia Life’s gym, stadium and pool remain closed, and memberships have been placed on hold.
All Casey Cardinia Libraries, including Pakenham and Emerald Library, are still closed.
Meanwhile, Premier Daniel Andrews fronted the media on Sunday 17 May to advise that further restrictions would be lifted, in a welcome boost for the hospitality industry.
From 1 June, cafes, restaurants and pubs can reopen their doors to serve meals to up to 20 customers. That number will increase to 50 patrons by 22 June, and it’s anticipated that figure could rise to 100 by mid-July.
The timelines, however, are reliant on Victorians continuing to get tested, and the Premier said the dates weren’t a “done deal”.
“If, in the coming weeks, we see a sudden upswing in community exposures from an unknown source – we may have to make the call to delay,” he said.
Restrictions on other spaces within these kinds of venues – including public bars and gaming areas – will remain in place throughout June, as will restrictions on food courts.
For more information on the local response to Covid-19: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
