Council closes all public camping grounds

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The Balonne Shire Council has closed all public camping areas across the shire as a result of COVID-19.

Council’s Chief Executive Officer Matthew Magin said this was being done in strict accordance with the Queensland Governments “Non – Essential Business Closure Direction”.

“This is a direction from the Chief Health Officer in accordance with emergency powers arising from the declared public health emergency (Public Health Act 2005 QLD),” he said.

“The non-essential business closure direction is very explicit and there are no exceptions allowed.

“We have commenced the process by putting up appropriate signage, locking ablution blocks and seeking assistance from the Queensland Police Service to move people on.

“Obviously this is causing some angst for both the travelling public and our Council Town Officers, however we do not have a choice in this matter the direction from the State Government is very clear and unambiguous.

“This is a very trying time for everyone involved and Council is doing its best to protect our community from the spread of the COVID -19 virus within the confines of its legislative powers to do so.”

Mr Magin said all of the Shire’s libraries were now closed until further notice.

“Our residents are able to use the Rural Library of Queensland network and we encourage residents to register so they can use the online Borrow Box and Story Box library resources,” he said.

“For registration, Balonne Shire residents can contact Council on 07 4620 8888 and ask to be put through to the St George library.”

How to access the online library