Community update from City of Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels

From the Mayor: As Western Australia prepares to move into a new phase in our COVID-19 recovery I hope that you are continuing to stay safe and healthy.

On Sunday 10 May 2020 the State Government announced its COVID-19 WA Roadmap, which outlines the different phases we will be taking in the battle against COVID-19 in the weeks and months to come. The latest cautious easing of restrictions is welcomed by the City of Rockingham and Phase Two of the Roadmap has some very important implications for us when it comes to reopening facilities.

Here are the main things you need to know: 

Reopening Monday 18 May 2020 
-    The customer service centre at the City’s Administration Building for in-person enquiries 
-    Enclosed dog parks 
-    Sporting fields and club rooms (conditions must be met).  

Reopening Monday 25 May 2020
-    All four of the City’s libraries (Click and Collect will still be available). 
-    The Autumn Centre (access by members will be by booking only).

The health and safety of the community and staff is the highest priority for us as we move to reopen these facilities. All reopened facilities will adhere to the State Government’s COVID-19 Safety Plan, so please be patient with us as we work to ensure we are fully compliant. While some facilities will be reopening over the next fortnight, there are others which will remain closed due to logistical difficulties posed by the 20 patron limit. Also, due to the significant renovations of the pools and the fact the gym is still unavailable as per phase two restrictions, the Aqua Jetty will remain closed for now.  

Still closed: 
-    Aqua Jetty
-    Rockingham Arts Centre
-    Mike Barnett Sports Complex 
-    Warnbro Recreation Centre 
-    Community centres and halls (with the exception of the Community Centre at Mary Davies Library – limited capacity)
-    Rockingham Aquatic Centre (currently closed for the winter season). 

I’d also like to remind residents that playgrounds, skate parks and outdoor gym equipment all remain closed based on the State Government’s current restrictions. The State is expected to review the progress of Phase Two in approximately four weeks, and we hope to be able to reopen more facilities then.

With cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars also permitted to reopen from 18 May 2020 with restrictions, I encourage you to support local businesses if you head out in the coming weeks. Many operators have endured significant financial difficulties over the past few months, and I’m sure they would be grateful for your support as they also begin the process of recovery.

Everyone in the community should be proud of their efforts in helping to limit the spread of COVID-19 so far. By maintaining social distancing and good hygiene, we’ve each played a vital part in achieving a positive outcome for our state. It is still early days in the battle against COVID-19, but if we each continue to do our bit then we can look forward to more positive changes.

For specific information regarding the restrictions on each facility that is reopening, visit rockingham.wa.gov.au/coronavirus

Please continue to stay safe and well.

Barry Sammels
City of Rockingham Mayor