Lockdown lifted but COVID-19 vigilance must remain

Sunshine Coast Council residents must continue to keep COVID-19 front of mind and continue to comply with amended public health directions announced by the Queensland Chief Health Officer on Sunday, 8 August 2021.

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said although lockdown had lifted, everyone had a shared responsibility to do their part to help stop the spread.

“I thank those members of our community who have been doing such a great job throughout the latest lockdown to help to keep our community safe,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“Doing the right thing and looking out for each other has helped bring this lockdown to an end.

“But the virus remains an ever-present threat and none of us can afford to be complacent.

“It remains absolutely critical to observe the requirements so we can lessen the likelihood of a further outbreak of the Delta Variant of the COVID-19 virus.

“So, please, if you haven’t done so already, make arrangements to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“Continue to wear a mask when required, practise good hygiene and remember to socially distance 1.5 metres.

“Critically, if you have any symptoms – no matter how minor – get tested immediately and stay at home until you receive your results and at all times, follow the Queensland Health directions.

“Do not wait if you have any symptoms – get tested straight away.  If you are unsure if you have symptoms of COVID-19, err on the side of caution and get tested.

“Everyone is also being asked to consider if any travel is essential and limit travel outside the 11 Local Government Areas of south east Queensland in line with the Queensland Health directive.

“And don’t forget, when you’re out and about, it’s vital to check-in when visiting premises using the Check-in app.

“By following these requirements and working together, we are all doing our bit to keep our community safe.”

**Reopening of council services and facilities
**
Council’s customer service centres reopened on Monday 8.30am. Phone and online contact options remain available, visit www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Council/Contact-Council to see all of the options.

Waste services and facilities

Council kerbside waste services, such as household rubbish collection, continued to operate as usual throughout lockdown. Waste facilities and recycling centres reopened on Monday to all customers.

**Outdoor areas
**
Barbecues, play and exercise equipment in council managed parks and skate parks will be progressively reopened as council staff make their way across the region.

Council venues

All libraries (including the mobile library), Caloundra Regional Gallery, Bankfoot House, Venue 114, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, Maleny including the Rainforest Discovery Centre, Arts and Ecology Centre, Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens, Tanawha, Sunshine Coast Stadium, community halls and venues have reopened and are operating in line with the Public Health Directions.
**
Be COVID-19 alert
**
If you have any of the following COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild, call your doctor or 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and get tested:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• shortness of breath
• runny nose
• fatigue
• diarrhoea
• vomiting or nausea
• loss of smell or loss of taste.

Call emergency services on Triple Zero (000) if you are very sick.

Visit Queensland Health’s website for the full list of testing centres near you, contact tracing locations and for further information.