While open spaces across the region provide a welcome backdrop for those wanting to get outdoors during the current COVID-19 restrictions, MidCoast Council reminds users that social distancing measures continue to apply.

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From Wednesday 29 April, the closed signs erected at MidCoast beach access points will be removed, however beaches are still only able to be used for exercise in accordance with the COVID-19 Public Health Order.

The exception is Forster Main Beach, which will be closed until Saturday to allow for sand shifting works to be completed.

Acceptable activities under the Public Health Order include surfing, swimming, running, walking, and fishing.

Barricades and signs will also be removed from natural swimming enclosures such as tidal pools and rock pools from tomorrow, however their use will also be subject to social distancing rules. This excludes Forster Ocean Baths and Blackhead Ocean Pool which are both classified as ‘public swimming pools’ due to their hard-walled structure, and therefore remain closed in accordance with the Public Health Order.

And in a welcome move for our four-legged friends, designated dog parks in Harrington, Tuncurry and Taree will re-open from Wednesday.

“Our beaches and parks have seen a surge in the number of people exercising with their dogs, so re-opening our leash-free dog parks opens up alternative spaces for these people to resume using,” Council’s Director of Liveable Communities, Paul De Szell said.

Social distancing of 1.5 metres is a requirement under the Public Health Order and is enforceable by law. Doing the right thing can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community.