By Laura Michell
Whittlesea’s administrators have urged residents to abide by the new stage 4 restrictions for the health and safety of the entire community.
In a message to residents, the council’s panel of administrators chair, Lydia Wilson, described the move to a hard lockdown as “sad”, “stressful” and “heartbreaking”.
“But these extra measures are necessary,” she said.
“We need to be thinking of, and looking out for, the health and safety of our whole community.
“This of course means protecting ourselves and our families, but also our friends, our neighbours, front line workers, essential workers and the most vulnerable people living in the City of Whittlesea.
“By remaining vigilant and adhering to the curfew … by only going out for the reasons listed under new restrictions, and never leaving home without a face mask, we will all be playing our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the hope that life can return to any form of normality in the future.”
Ms Wilson reassured residents that the council would continue to deliver essential services and would be looking at more ways to support local businesses.
“Please stay connected with each other in whatever ways you can – phone, email, social media, video calls, letters, signs of support in your window, or a note in your neighbour’s letterbox asking if they’re OK,” she said.
Any residents in need of support are urged to visit the council’s coronavirus page (whittlesea.vic.gov.au/coronavirus), or reach out to local support services.