Mayor Kerr warns against complacency
Covid-19
The Douglas Shire has been fortunate to avoid the clutches of Covid-19 and residents and visitors can rest assured the region is prepared should the tide change.
And in light of recent developments in South East Queensland and the warning to the Far North to “not feel comfortable”, there is additional emphasis on complacency which needs to be taken seriously.
“We simply cannot be complacent. We need to take every precaution to avoid this pandemic spreading and I cannot stress enough the importance of adhering to any medical advice you receive,” said Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr.
In addressing the shire, Kerr said the message is simple: “Get your vaccines as soon as you can. The sooner we all get vaccinated, the sooner we have more certainty around lockdowns and border closures.”
He said the Mossman Hospital has a vaccination clinic open four days per week until August 18 and you can register for the vaccination at: https://www.vaccinebookings.health.qld.gov.au/registerforvaccination/
“Residents and visitors are encouraged to practice good hygiene by hand washing, covering sneezes and staying home if you are sick.
“Importantly, if you have any symptoms, please go and get tested,” said Kerr.
He said Douglas Shire Council has Business Continuity Plans in place to ensure the continued supply of critical services such as water, wastewater and waste collection.
“We are prepared for whatever may come our way and we will be able to maintain services as we have in the past.”
In the unlikely event of the pandemic impacting the shire, Kerr said the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) will work closely with QLD Health to relay any health advice and get information out to the community.
“As Chairman of the group, I will speak to the various mediums, all levels of government and other key stakeholders to ensure the health and safety of visitors and locals is the highest priority. We defer to QLD Health on specific matters related to Covid advice.
“We also play a role in working with vulnerable communities to ensure they are aware and well prepared for any outbreaks,” he said.
Kerr said along with key Council staff, he participates in regular video calls with the State Government, as well as the District Disaster Management Group.