The Australian Government has renewed calls for Australians to stay vigilant as the toll of people who have died as a result of COVID-19 rises to 100.
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck today urged residents to maintain physical distancing and strict hygiene measures to ensure the nation continues to flatten the curve.
It follows confirmation of the death of a resident at Sydney aged care facility Newmarch House – the centre’s 19th since the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility, with 17 directly attributed to COVID-19 and Australia’s 100th overall.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to all those people who have lost a loved one as a result of this pandemic,” Minister Hunt said.
“This tragic toll reminds us that even as Australian states and territories move toward easing of restrictions, the threat of this virus remains.”
Minister Hunt said it was vital Australians continued to follow the advice of National Cabinet and the AHPPC, which clearly outlines the measures needed to ensure we can navigate through this pandemic.
“We recognise the profound impact of every single death in Australia as a result of COVID-19,” Minister Hunt said. “While this is a tragic toll, it also indicates how strict measures adopted across the nation have served to protect our way of life.
“The Australian Government has outlined a clear pathway to recovery, but Australians everywhere should stay alert, follow physical distancing guidelines and look out for each other. Together, we can do this.”
Minister Colbeck said he was deeply saddened by the latest death at Newmarch House.
“Our thoughts are extended to all those affected by this latest loss,” Minister Colbeck said.
“The deaths at Newmarch House underline the dangers COVID-19 pose for vulnerable and senior Australians.
“Protecting the health and wellbeing of residents remains a focus for both Commonwealth and State.
“We are not out of the woods. Protecting our most vulnerable is everybody’s responsibility.”
Minister Colbeck said the Aged Care Visitor Access Code, released earlier this month, set out a nationally consistent framework to ensure the health and wellbeing of aged care residents remained a priority while ensuring important social connections were retained.
Both Minister Hunt and Minister Colbeck said the COVIDSafe app remained a key to ensuring a stronger, safer future for Australia.
The voluntary opt-in contactp app will help health authorities know who has been in contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
The CovidSafe app can be found here.
The Aged Care Visitor Access Code can be found here.
Month: May 2020
Greens: Childcare Must Remain Free
The Greens have backed a community call to retain free childcare in light of the Education Minister’s strongest indications yet that the government would revert back to a fee-paying model, potentially as early as next month.
Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Greens spokesperson for Education, said:
“Free childcare has been a huge step forward for access to childcare for families. It should be made permanent.
“The government may think it will save money by going back to the fee-paying model, but we know the social and economic benefits of free childcare are enormous.
“The economic impacts of COVID-19 are going to be felt for many months and years. People are doing it tough, and a return to fee-paying childcare now will only make things worse.
“The Minister should be looking at how to ensure ongoing access to free childcare, and options for expanded public operation of childcare, not doubling down on a return to fees that will once again prevent families from accessing childcare.
“Free childcare, hand-in-hand with a fair and decent wage for workers in the sector, benefits everyone.
“It’s time to recognise childcare as an essential service available to anyone who needs it, not just those who can afford it,” she said.
Australians urged to stay vigilant as COVID-19 toll climbs to 100
The Australian Government has renewed calls for Australians to stay vigilant as the toll of people who have died as a result of COVID-19 rises to 100.
Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians Richard Colbeck today urged residents to maintain physical distancing and strict hygiene measures to ensure the nation continues to flatten the curve.
It follows confirmation of the death of a resident at Sydney aged care facility Newmarch House – the centre’s 19th since the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility, with 17 directly attributed to COVID-19 and Australia’s 100th overall.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to all those people who have lost a loved one as a result of this pandemic,” Minister Hunt said.
“This tragic toll reminds us that even as Australian states and territories move toward easing of restrictions, the threat of this virus remains.”
Minister Hunt said it was vital Australians continued to follow the advice of National Cabinet and the AHPPC, which clearly outlines the measures needed to ensure we can navigate through this pandemic.
“We recognise the profound impact of every single death in Australia as a result of COVID-19,” Minister Hunt said. “While this is a tragic toll, it also indicates how strict measures adopted across the nation have served to protect our way of life.
“The Australian Government has outlined a clear pathway to recovery, but Australians everywhere should stay alert, follow physical distancing guidelines and look out for each other. Together, we can do this.”
Minister Colbeck said he was deeply saddened by the latest death at Newmarch House.
“Our thoughts are extended to all those affected by this latest loss,” Minister Colbeck said.
“The deaths at Newmarch House underline the dangers COVID-19 pose for vulnerable and senior Australians.
“Protecting the health and wellbeing of residents remains a focus for both Commonwealth and State.
“We are not out of the woods. Protecting our most vulnerable is everybody’s responsibility.”
Minister Colbeck said the Aged Care Visitor Access Code, released earlier this month, set out a nationally consistent framework to ensure the health and wellbeing of aged care residents remained a priority while ensuring important social connections were retained.
Both Minister Hunt and Minister Colbeck said the COVIDSafe app remained a key to ensuring a stronger, safer future for Australia.
The voluntary opt-in contactp app will help health authorities know who has been in contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
The CovidSafe app can be found here.
The Aged Care Visitor Access Code can be found here.
Electric vehicle chargers installed portside
City of Newcastle has teamed up with Port of Newcastle to deliver a new electric vehicle charging station on Wharf Road to add to the city’s growing network.
Two new 22-kilowatt chargers in the carpark next to Harry’s Café de Wheels follow three others installed by the City outside No.2 Sportsground and another smaller charging station on Laman St, Cooks Hill, last year.
Thanks to City of Newcastle’s 100 per cent renewable electricity contract, motorists can now power up using renewable energy from four parking bays either side of the two new chargers.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Novocastrians were increasingly embracing sustainable transport and that the new installation had been strategically located.
Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor with Port of Newcastle’s Simon Byrnes at today’s opening.
“This third charging hub is part of readying Newcastle for a future in which Australians dramatically reduce their transport emissions by driving renewable energy-powered EVs,” Councillor Nelmes said.
“There are now 19 different EV models available in Australia with a typical range of 480km, and we’re seeing more and more on local streets.
“We’ve located this facility close to inner-city businesses and tourist attractions in the hope that, like chargers installed in Wallsend’s town centre, they draw motorists from the M1 Motorway.
“We are delighted to partner with the Port of Newcastle in leading this transition to more sustainable transport, which we outlined in our own 2017 Smart City Strategy.”
The new chargers will initially be free before user-pay fees are later introduced.
Port of Newcastle Chief Commercial Officer Simon Byrnes said partnerships were critical to achieving the Port’s diversification and sustainability goals.
“It is a pleasure to partner with the City of Newcastle to help expand its electric vehicle charging network and promote renewable energy and sustainable transport options in the region,” Mr Byrnes said.
“Today I am excited to unveil the first four electric vehicles in our Port of Newcastle fleet. We expect to complete the transition to an electric fleet by the end of 2021, saving more than 48 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
One of four new Port of Newcastle electric vehicles.
“Port of Newcastle is serious about its commitment to the environment and creating a prosperous future for the communities it supports. Ultimately, we are striving to create a safe, sustainable and socially responsible Port for the future.”
Australian sales of fully electric and plug-in hybrid cars more than tripled in 2019 to 6,718 units, according to the Electric Vehicle Council, as sales of petrol and diesel vehicles fell eight per cent.
NSW is now well covered with around 300 public charging stations, which the City will add to with another site in Cooks Hill’s Queen Street carpark later in 2020.
Last year a 50-kilowatt fast charger and two 22-kilowatt chargers were installed at No.2 Sportsground.
One of the No.2 Sportsground chargers.
The fast charger can charge an average vehicle to around 80 per cent capacity in 30-40 minutes, while the smaller chargers take around two hours.
“Our EV charger network has now recorded 1,000 charging sessions, 800 hours of charging time and 15,000-kilowatt hours of 100 per cent renewable energy,” the Lord Mayor said.
The roll out of EV infrastructure is part of the $13 million Smart Moves Newcastle project, which received $5 million under the Federal Government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs program in 2017.
The City has also begun transitioning its fleet with the purchase of electric vehicles and investigations into electric waste trucks.
HOLIDAY TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS TO BE LIFTED FROM 1 JUNE
NSW residents will be able to take a holiday anywhere in NSW from next month, with intra-state travel restrictions to be lifted from Monday 1 June, 2020.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro said NSW citizens will be able take recreational trips across NSW, as long as they maintain social distancing and good hygiene.
Ms Berejiklian said lifting the holiday travel restriction will give everyone a much needed break and help get small businesses and the tourism industry moving again.
“This is the day we’ve all been looking forward to since the COVID-19 travel restrictions were put in place earlier this year and I would like to thank everyone for their patience during the past few months of being cooped up at home,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“I must stress to everyone that, while we want people to enjoy a well-earned holiday, we must do this responsibly and continue to abide by physical distancing measures, as the last thing we want is further outbreaks that will force us to reintroduce restrictions.”
Mr Barilaro said while regional NSW will welcome visitors with open arms, holidaymakers should call their planned accommodation venues and attractions to ensure they will be open and confirm their bookings before travelling.
“COVID could not have come at a worse time for regional NSW, with towns already doing it tough due to bushfires and drought and so I encourage everyone to make plans to safely and responsibly visit their favourite regional holiday destination, or discover a new one,” Mr Barilaro said.
“I encourage holidaymakers to visit local businesses, enjoy local attractions and feast on the best food regional NSW has to offer, and for those not able to get away in June, to start making plans for later in the year when even more businesses will be open.
I’m very pleased to share that this means we will have a ski season this year, however holidaymakers should be aware that ski resorts will likely need time to put COVID plans into place and you should make contact before visiting.
Venues are also encouraged to review their booking policies to allow travellers to easily cancel their trip if they have any symptoms.
A number of caravan parks and camping grounds will be open from 1 June, but travellers should call ahead and confirm bookings, while travellers planning to visit national parks should check www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au for further information. Travellers need to especially practice strong hygiene around shared facilities.
Travellers from interstate will be able to visit NSW for a holiday from 1 June but will need to comply with the rules of their home state when returning.
Third man charged following public place shooting – Raymond Terrace
Three men have now been charged following investigations into a public place shooting at Raymond Terrace earlier this month.
About 11am on Saturday 2 May 2020, the occupants of a home on Benjamin Lee Drive, Raymond Terrace, located a .22 calibre bullet had penetrated the front door and lodged in an internal wall.
Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were called, and an investigation commenced.
About 4.40pm yesterday (Monday 18 May 2020), officers arrested a 20-year-old man at Raymond Terrace Police Station.
He was charged with fire firearm at dwelling house with disregard for public safety.
He was granted strict conditional bail and will appear in Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday 15 June 2020.
Missing Lake Macquarie man found
A man reported missing from the Lake Macquarie area has been found safe and well.
The 72-year-old was last seen about 1.30pm yesterday (Monday 18 May 2020), in Garden Suburb.
Following extensive inquiries, the man was found at about 6.50am today (Tuesday 19 May 2020), at New Lambton.
Police would like to thank the community and media for their assistance.
Man in court after allegedly biting officer – Maitland
A man will appear in court today after allegedly biting a police officer near Maitland yesterday.
About 3.45pm (Tuesday 19 May 2020), officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District stopped a man on Thursby Street, Tenambit, and observed him holding something in the front of his jumper.
When police asked him to show them what he was holding, the man was observed placing a small plastic bag into his mouth before chewing it, swallowing it and attempting to leave the scene.
The 38-year-old man was arrested when he allegedly became violent, resisting police and biting one Senior Constable on his right arm.
The man was taken to Maitland Police Station and charged with resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty, two counts of resist officer in execution of duty, assault police officer in execution of duty cause actual bodily harm, and rider not wear approved bicycle helmet/fitted/fastened.
He was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court today (Wednesday 20 May 2020).
The Senior Constable was taken to Maitland Hospital for treatment.
Man charged after allegedly shoplifting and spitting at a supermarket employee – Marrickville
A man has been charged after allegedly shoplifting and spitting at an employee at a Marrickville supermarket this week.
Police were called to a supermarket at a shopping centre on Victoria Road, about 2.30pm yesterday (Tuesday 19 May 2020), following reports a man spat on an employee.
Police have been told, the man left the store after allegedly failing to pay for some items, and when confronted by the 26-year-old male employee, spat on him.
Following inquiries, a 40-year-old man was arrested by officers from Inner West and Leichhardt’s Police Area Command’s at a Broadway shopping centre 9.20am today (Wednesday 20 May 2020).
He was taken to Newtown Police Station and charged with shoplifting and common assault.
The man has been refused bail to appear at Central Local Court today (Wednesday 20 May 2020).
Support Act Wellbeing Helpline now available to all arts workers!
Support Act is delighted to announce that its Wellbeing Helpline has been expanded beyond the music and theatre industries to now incorporate all artists and arts workers across Australia.
The Wellbeing Helpline is a free confidential service available 24/7, staffed by professional clinicians familiar with issues faced by people working in music and the arts. It can be accessed by calling 1800 959 500 within Australia, or via email. Zoom video calls are also available.
The twelve-month expansion of this essential service has been made possible thanks to the Australian Government, through the Office for the Arts.
Clive Miller, CEO, says he is thrilled that Support Act can extend access to the Helpline to the wider arts community during this challenging time.
“COVID-19 is clearly having a huge impact on the mental health and wellbeing of people across the entire arts sector, with many people struggling as a result of financial hardship, concern about careers, being cut off from social networks and working from home. Our clinicians can provide support in all these areas and more, and we encourage any music or arts worker who is concerned about their mental health to call the Helpline on 1800 959 500.”
Support Act launched the Wellbeing Helpline in June 2018 with support from The Tony Foundation and Levi’s and partnered with the Arts Centre Melbourne’s Arts Wellbeing Collective to extend access to all performing arts workers in July 2019.
The Wellbeing Helpline is delivered in partnership with AccessEAP, a leading not-for-profit Employee Assistance Program provider with close to 30 years’ experience in mental health and workplace wellbeing.
“I have used the Helpline and it really helped me at the time deal with some flat feelings after a project came to an end,” said Ben Steel, writer & director of the documentary, The Show Must Go On . “It was a relief to speak with a trained clinician who could understand my creative world and provide thoughtful and relevant advice at a convenient time to my busy schedule. I know screen actors and our friends across all of arts & entertainment will benefit from having access to this incredible industry Helpline.”
More information is available on our website, including digital resources to download and share on socials, websites, emails as well as venues and workplaces.