Town to cancel events due to COVID-19

The Town of Port Hedland have announced they will cancel events throughout Hedland in response to today’s statement from Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

The Shay Gap Memorial Park playground opening scheduled for Saturday 14 March and the Sunset Food Markets Scheduled for Friday 20 March will no longer go ahead as a precaution against the Coronavirus.

The Federal government today issued a ban on all non-essential public gatherings of more than 500 people, effective from Monday 16 March 2020, to limit the spread of Coronavirus across Australia.

Town of Port Hedland commissioner Fred Riebeling said it was essential to prioritise public health in the first instance in response to the unfolding pandemic.

“As a local government, we are responsible for taking precautionary measures to minimise risks to health at public events and facilities in the face of this pandemic,” he said.

“I understand the decision to cancel events will be disappointing to many residents; however, we must work collaboratively with all levels of government to limit the spread of Coronavirus by following all advice and directives.

“I ask all residents to monitor their health and symptoms, as well as exercise hygienic behaviour at all times: cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often and stay home if unwell.

“The Town is proactively ensuring all facilities are cleaned thoroughly with anti-bacterial chemicals daily, ensuring hand sanitiser is available at Town facilities.”