By Luke Voogt
Geelong playgrounds and outdoor pools are set to reopen with state government planning to ease restrictions slightly for regional Victoria next Monday.
At 11.59pm on September 13 regional Victoria is set to move to the second step of state government’s reopening roadmap.
Under the changes, playgrounds and outdoor pools can reopen with limits on their use.
“I urge everyone to keep doing the right thing and wear a mask, maintain social distancing, practise good hygiene, get tested and stay home if you have symptoms,” Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said.
City Hall is awaiting further information on state government directions, including density requirements, before finalising details of Kardinia Aquatic Centre’s reopening.
Council officers are also considering opening Lara Aquatic Centre ahead of its normal season launch in November.
But stadiums, cultural venues and indoor swim, sport and leisure centres will remain closed under step two of the roadmap.
Cr Asher said council had begun planning for a move to step three amid disappointment over the recently-announced roadmap.
“We know businesses across our region are hurting and this has not been the news they were hoping for, as they face more weeks of closure and loss of income,” she said.
“Council recognises the need for even further targeted assistance and is working through the details of further community support measures.”
The third step will occur if regional Victoria records a daily average of five cases or fewer, with no unknown transmission, for 14 days.
Step three allows regional Victorian residents to have five visitors over, leave home without restriction and gather in public in groups of up to 10.
The step will also allow restaurants and other hospitality venues to reopen, predominantly with an outdoor seated service only.
Cr Asher stressed the importance of driving down cases given Premier Daniel Andrews has warned Geelong will be under “close watch”.
“Achieving the third step will be vital in creating more opportunities for operators in the tourism, retail and hospitality sectors.
“We are looking at different and innovative outdoor and commercial options to support these businesses to get back on their feet quickly when we reach the third step threshold.”
