Sunshine Coast Council gives ‘final warning’ on need to avoid crowding in parks and on beaches

Amid concerns about people ignoring advice to stay at home and to avoid crowding and gathering in groups - even when exercising - Sunshine Coast Council has reminded residents of the need to avoid visiting the beach for relaxation and sunbathing.

Explaining that “stay home” should be a pretty simple message amid the Coronavirus outbreak, Sunshine Coast Council Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair Mark Jamieson has stated “if people don’t make sensible choices on their own, then public areas like beaches will be closed.

“I made that clear last week and this is the final warning.

“Staying home is the safest place to be at this time.

“Queensland’s Chief Health Officer has been very clear - there is absolutely no reason any Sunshine Coast resident should leave their home other than for essential shopping, medical care, exercise, work or education.

“If you do go out to exercise and your favourite walking track, beach or dog park is crowded, turn around and go home.”

Mayor Jamieson also called for residents not to take matters into their own hands as the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is the law enforcement agency, adding “we’ve had reports of people attempting to restrict access to crowded areas and locations by placing signs at entry points.

“This cannot and should not happen - if there are concerns about people congregating in a local area, then the best thing to do is to contact the QPS.

“Queensland Police have a Sunshine Coast Tactical Crime Squad comprised of police who are tasked with the social distancing rules and other law enforcement measures related to COVID-19 on the Sunshine Coast.

“The last thing we want is for frustrations to boil over and matters to get out of hand.

“If you think you’re helping by restricting access to a public area - you are not.

“Anyone flouting the social distancing rules risks a $1334 fine, but more importantly, they may be risking someone’s life.

“Those who are on the beaches or in parks sunbaking, reading or gathering together to eat or socialise are in breach of the law.”

Mayor Jamieson insisted putting community safety ahead of recreation is paramount, reminding residents not to invite family and friends to visit for the upcoming Easter long weekend.

He concluded “staying home and complying with the national public health directions is what we should all be doing in the interests of helping to slow the transmission of this virus.

“There are options available for people to safely exercise in the comfort of their own home with easy to follow videos and templates without needing gym equipment.”

Image: Surf Life Saving Queensland ask people to stay home.