Colac Otway welcomes reopening of community spaces
November 9, 2020
Colac Otway Shire Council will welcome community members and groups back to indoor facilities, including halls and senior citizen centres, as State Government COVID19 restrictions ease.
The latest step towards COVID-normal, will also allow artists back to the Colac Makers Space and Apollo Bay Arts Inc Gallery at the Mechanics Hall, and members can return to neighbourhood houses and the Colac History Centre.
“COVID-safe plans will be required and groups will have strict hygiene, mask requirements to keep the community safe, however we know community groups will be proactive with meeting any necessary requirements,” Council’s Development & Community Services General Manager Ian Seuren said.
“Colac Otway Shire has 25 community halls, many of which are the only public spaces in their small communities so they are very important to local residents.
“The shire community has been innovative and supportive in dealing with COVID-response closures by starting virtual meetings or keeping in touch via phone with members of groups or neighbours,” Mr Seuren said.
“However we know groups have been keen to get back to safe face-to-face meetings and will plan around the limited numbers of members who will be able to attend at the one time.
“For example the Colac History Centre will open to members but not open to the public at this stage and our arts groups will need to limit workshop numbers.”
In accordance with the new State Government restrictions, which applied from midnight Sunday, community venues, including libraries and neighbourhood houses, are open for up to 20 people indoors with a maximum of 10 people per space or 1 person per 4m2 – whichever is lower.
Council will notify community groups regarding the opportunity to reopen and more information regarding COVID-safe plan requirements and safety measures they will need to follow is available on the DHHS website.
Community groups can contact Council to discuss requirements for facility reopening and COVIC-safe plans on (03) 5232 9400.
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400