By Mitchell Clarke
Two popular council facilities will reopen to the public, providing some much needed welcome news to the community.
Cardinia Shire Council announced that the closure of Mount Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve and Emerald Lake Park will be lifted in line with the State Government’s announcement to gradually ease Covid-19 restrictions.
Emerald Lake Park was reopened to visitors from Wednesday 13 May, while Mount Cannibal will open for exercise from Saturday 16 May.
It’s not quite a complete return to normality just yet, with the council forced to introduce a one-way only walking track, as new directional signage will be installed throughout the park.
Cardinia Shire Council mayor Jeff Springfield said visitors must continue to maintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres and will need to stay on the track at all times.
In line with State Government advice, people must not gather at the parks in groups of more than 10 people.
“I encourage everyone to continue doing the right thing by following the gathering and physical distancing rules while out and about to help protect yourself and others,” Cr Springfield said.
“Please continue to stay safe, take care, and look after yourselves and others.”
Signage will also be implemented throughout Emerald Lake Park to ensure visitors are following gathering guidelines.
The park’s playgrounds, BBQs and outdoor gym equipment remain closed, as do the paddle boats, model railway and the Emerald Museum. Nobelius Heritage Park is open to the public.
Casual bookings for weddings, funerals and gatherings in council outdoor spaces and recreation reserves can now be made, provided they meet State Government guidelines.
Cardinia Shire Council was pleased to make the announcement that the “highly valued” space would be reopened to the public, Cr Springfield said.
“We understand that open space areas such as Emerald Lake Park are very important to our community,” he said.
“Emerald Lake Park is a much-loved destination that is popular with locals and visitors alike.
“We know that people have missed being able to visit the park and are no doubt looking forward to being able to return to enjoy a leisurely walk, a brisk run, a bike ride or just to take in its natural beauty.”
The parks were temporarily closed on 3 April in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, however the closures didn’t stop some from flouting the rules.
As previously reported by the Gazette, locked gates which restricted access to Mount Cannibal were repeatedly pushed over, as eager exercisers disregarded blatant and clear signs to stay out of the park.
But the majority of the community have been following the stay at home guidelines, the council said.
“Our community has been doing a fantastic job throughout these challenging times,” Cr Springfield said.
“I’m proud of the great work people are doing in following the physical distancing guidelines, and I thank you for your continued efforts.”
For more information: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
