Mayors message

Published on 19 June 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting our whole region economically.
We remain committed to helping all the communities in Moira Shire who are facing unprecedented hardship conditions both financially and emotionally.
To assist businesses, organisations and individuals resume normal operations and begin to use Council facilities again, we will not be charging ‘hire of park’ for events to be held up until the end of September.
In addition, ‘hire of hall’ fees will not be charged until the end of September for Council- owned or operated buildings in Cobram and Yarrawonga; bookings must still be made and, depending on the type of event, a bond may still be required.
We are actively working with individual ratepayers who already have payment plans in place or have requested a plan be developed.
As well as waiving 100% of the rent for the June quarter for enterprises that operate from Council-owned or managed land, we have also given a 50% rebate for the September quarter for these businesses.

Under guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), all Council-owned or managed buildings have now opened and we have developed a COVID-19 Safe Plan to support a safe approach to use for all groups, organisations and individuals.
Access and use of Council buildings is provided in good faith, however it is the responsibility of users to ensure they comply with all relevant restrictions, regulations and guidelines.
In terms of the health of our community, while the COVID-19 restrictions are slowly relaxing DHHS is reminding us it remains critical people get tested for this virus. 
The four hospitals in Moira Shire are working to enable the quick identification of any future cases in our region.  
Numurkah and Cobram hospitals will hold testing clinics Monday to Friday from
1.30pm-3.30pm, Nathalia Hospital has testing by appointment only and Yarrawonga Health has testing seven days a week but you must make an appointment; please phone each hospital for more information.

Testing will be available to people who are showing symptoms, however mild, of COVID-19 including fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or runny nose. 
The test is free, takes around five minutes and involves a swab from the back of your throat and nose.  

You need to bring at least one form of identification, such as your Medicare card, and you should return home immediately after the test and remain in self-isolation until your receive your test result.
Stay safe.