By Luke Voogt
Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula beaches have closed after hundreds flocked to the coast over the weekend, some ignoring social distancing rules, as Victoria’s COVID-19 pandemic worsened.
The closures followed large gatherings at Bellarine Peninsula beaches, particularly at Ocean Grove Main Beach on Saturday.
Council on Monday announced the closure would begin at midnight after Surf Coast beaches closed over the weekend.
“We all love a day at the beach, but in these circumstances it’s no longer an option,” Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher said.
“The health and safety of the community must be the top priority.”
Cr Asher warned locals not to linger or gather at the beach and maintain a distance 1.5 metres from other people.
People could only visit the beach for limited daily exercise, and with one other person or members of their household, she explained.
“Exercise is still permitted, so as long as you’re still moving it’s OK to use the beach to walk, swim or run,” she said.
“What is not allowed is spending time on the beach sitting, sunbaking or gathering in groups of more than two.
“With Victoria now moving to a stage three shutdown, we urge everyone to follow the advice of authorities by staying home as much as you possibly can.
“If we all take personal responsibility, we can save many lives.”
City Hall joined with Barwon Coast and Bellarine Bayside Coastal Management to enforce the blanket closure.
Barwon Coast manages the coastline from Collendina through to Blue Rocks, west of Barwon Heads.
“The message is very clear – if you can, stay at home,” Barwon Coast chief executive officer Gary McPike said.
“If you are going to the beach to exercise, remember to practice social distance and don’t stay there.”
Bellarine Bayside Coastal Management manages the coastline from Point Richards to St Leonards.
Bellarine Bayside Coastal Management acting chief executive officer Rodney Newnham said his organisation had so far “observed responsible use of beaches” on the peninsula’s north.
According to City Hall the closures were in line with state and federal prohibited gatherings and non-essential activities directions, aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus.
