The moves come as Victoria prepares for the next easing of restrictions.
“We are sure the opening of our libraries will be welcomed; however, we urge the community to not all visit on day one,” Campaspe Shire chief executive Declan Moore said.
“Each building, depending on its size, will have a limit on the number of customers allowed inside at one time. For example, a maximum of 20 people in the regional library and down to maybe four in the smaller centres, until reviewed before 22 June.”
“Library branches will offer a restricted service, with no programs or activities operating, including no access to public computers. We are also encouraging the community to come in and out, as quickly as possible.”
“Online library services will continue to be available.”
“Library fees will be waived through to 1 July to allow the community time to return books across the coming month.”
Mr Moore said the decision still required strict social distancing guidelines and numbers to be followed.
“We are also required to record the names of people who stay in our facilities for more than 15 minutes,” Mr Moore said.
“Rather than closely monitor people during their stay, entry registration cards will be available at entry points to capture this information and, if you leave before 15 minutes, the card will be returned to you for destruction.
“We are seeking the community’s support to adhere to this requirement to ensure that we meet government guidelines and keep services open.”
Other services and facilities opening include:
Playgrounds, skateparks, outdoor gym equipment
● Open from Tuesday, May 26 with a gathering limit of 10 people. From Monday, June 1, changing to a limit of no more than 20 people per space.
Port of Echuca Discovery Centre and Echuca Paddlesteamers
● Open from Friday, June 5, initially for four days (Friday to Monday), then continuing four days per week moving to Thursday to Sunday. The centre will be operating booked group tours to ensure government guidelines can be adhered to. Paddlesteamer cruising times and passenger numbers will be limited and bookings are required.
Camping
● From June 1, camping is allowed, however without the use of shared facilities. Aysons Reserve south of Rochester, which is managed by Council, will be open for campers who are fully self-contained.
In easing restrictions from June 1, the government is reminding the community to be considerate in all activities, be cautious and use common sense.
“The key message is ‘if you don’t have to do something, please don’t’,” Mr Moore said.
There are a number of ways the community can continue to make contact with Council without leaving home:
● Online at council's website (for payments and service requests)
● By phone, at 1300 666 535
● By email at shire@campaspe.vic.gov.au
As changes are made to services and facilities, the community will be kept up to date through Council’s website, social media and local advertising.
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