Burdekin facilities to reopen this Saturday

A range of Burdekin businesses and facilities will reopen this weekend – however strict 10-person limits will be enforced to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in line with the latest Queensland Health directions.

Burdekin Shire Council public facilities will reopen from this Saturday, 16 May, following State guidelines allowing facilities to reopen from 11:59pm on Friday.

Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said social distancing restrictions would remain in place for some time but allowing access to public facilities was a fantastic first step in returning to life as normal.

“Council is very excited to reopen many of its facilities from this Saturday in line with directions from Queensland Health, with crews sanitising all equipment beforehand and regularly cleaning all facilities once open,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“From this Saturday, up to 10 people can utilise Council’s playgrounds, skate parks, dog park and outdoor gym, as well as the Home Hill Pool in accordance with its regular Winter operating hours.

“While only 10 people can make use of any one facility at a time, more than one group of 10 can be in the broader parkland at once, as long as they adhere to social distancing rules. This is a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of our beautiful North Queensland Autumn and Winter months, and I look forward to seeing our residents enjoying the outdoors more regularly from this weekend.”

While the Home Hill Pool will reopen, there will be strict hygiene and social distancing measures in place.

“In order to continue to slow the spread of COVID-19, only 10 swimmers will be allowed in the pool at once – with one swimmer per lane. No spectators will be allowed, with the exception of one parent or carer per child, or carers for those with a disability. While toilets and change rooms will be available at the pool, swimmers are asked to shower at home with soap both before and after their visit as shower facilities will remain closed at the pool.

“Home Hill Branch Library will resume its usual opening hours from 1pm next Thursday, 21 May for those wishing to browse its hard copy resources or utilise computer and photocopy services. The Burdekin Library in Ayr will remain closed as work commences on the replacement and installation of a new roof – however the community are still able to take advantage of the new Click, Call and Collect service if they want to pick up books in Ayr, and liaise with staff on the best collection point.”

The following Council facilities will reopen from this Saturday, 16 May, with limits of 10 people maximum while still observing social distancing:

• Home Hill Pool
• Public playgrounds
• Outdoor gym
• Dog park
• Skate parks
• Public BBQ facilities

The Home Hill Branch Library will also reopen with a limit of 10 visitors at a time from Thursday 21 May.

Council will continue to assess the opening of its facilities in line with Queensland Health directions. For all updates, visit burdekin.qld.gov.au.