Beaches, playgrounds and public areas closed

City of Newcastle reiterates the Prime Minister’s advice that people should not leave home other than for essential shopping, medical care, exercise or work/education that cannot be done remotely.

City of Newcastle has closed all beaches and outdoor public areas such as the ocean baths, skateparks, playgrounds and exercise equipment following the Federal Government’s overnight directive limiting public gatherings to two people. These closures include Crown Land reserves such as the Bogey Hole.

Beaches have red flags up with lifeguards on duty monitoring public safety. Police will be notified if people ignore the lifeguards’ advice to leave the beach.

Onsite signage is being effected today to advise the community that public spaces are closed to limit the spread of COVID-19.

While the government advice allows outdoor exercise to continue, City of Newcastle stresses the importance of ensuring boot camps are limited to two people and that no more than two people gather in public. This includes along popular pathways such as the Bathers Way. Further, people must comply with social distancing which requires 1.5m space between people.

City of Newcastle has closed public spaces including but not limited to:

• Beaches
• Ocean Baths including changerooms
• Playgrounds
• BBQs and shelters
• Fenced off-leash dog parks.
• Skateparks
• Exercise equipment.

NSW Police is the enforcement authority for Public Health Orders. Contact Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

For more information on the City’s response visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/covid-19