Dear Landcarers,
It has been a constant state of flux these past few months and as we slowly emerge from this period of uncertainty in response to the global pandemic of COVID-19, we count our blessings that Australia has come out of this stronger as a society.
However, this does not mean we can become complacent.
In an environment where each week and day can be different from the next, we would like to reach out to remind you to continue to take appropriate measures within your Landcare workplace and work sites.
As of Friday 15th May, the NSW Government announced people can participate in gatherings in a public place of not more than 10 people.
Ongoing recommendations remain in place that any people over the age of 70, those with a chronic illness aged over 60 or who have a chronic medical condition that leaves them vulnerable, and Indigenous Australians over the age of 50 should stay at home as much as practical.
For many of our Landcare groups this is a time of change and we would like to thank our entire community for the flexibility and strength that they have shown in these past weeks and months.
However, we would remind our members who have insurance through Ceneta and Community Underwriting, that they released a statement on Friday March 20 via Landcare NSW stating that:
“The advice they have given for Landcare groups holding events is as follows:
– We are unable to cover events where the attendees exceed either the current federal or state advice for public gatherings and visits to vulnerable groups.
– Where events are conducted with attendees less than the government recommendation, we recommend an organisation to undertake a risk assessment taking in the government advice.
This response remains in place and is guided by the State and Federal guidelines. As such we recommend you visit NSW Health to see updated guidelines in response to each event you hold. An attachment with the formal notice is accompanied with the email.
Additionally, NSW Workplace Health and Safety has released guidelines and a risk assessment in response to COVID-19 to help guide you and your activities during this time.
The Federal Government has also released a Stimulus Package to support households and businesses and address the significant economic consequences of the Coronavirus. Further information is attached.
Landcare Groups should talk to their financial advisers to see if they are eligible.
Here at Landcare NSW we continue to treat these times with the sensitivity, flexibility and sensible approach to all changes as we go forward.
Our staff are still working remotely and we continue to work with all staff and partners across NSW to ensure that all projects and programs are supported beyond this crisis.
Once again, we remind ourselves that Landcare has survived the devastation of drought, flood and fire. It will survive COVID-19.
As always, we are only a phone, email, or social media message away.
Stay up to date with current advice as circumstances change and review your activities and risk management accordingly. Visit www.health.nsw.gov.au.
Above all, practice healthy hygiene and always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
Kind regards,
Landcare NSW Inc.