COVID-safe call as Noosa records more than 1300 cases

With Noosa recording more than 1300 COVID-19 cases since Christmas, Council is urging residents and visitors to take simple steps to help protect themselves and slow the spread. 

Noosa has recorded more than 1300 COVID-19 cases since Christmas.

“Omicron’s impact has been felt the world over and Noosa is no different, but there are a few simple things we can all do to protect ourselves and our loved ones during this challenging time,” Mayor Clare Stewart said.

“Just as we’ve done many times during this pandemic, wear a mask if you head out, and avoid crowded places wherever you can,” she said.

“Work from home if you’re able to and check-in on vulnerable relatives or neighbours to see if they need any essential supplies so that they can stay at home.”

If you haven’t had your second COVID vaccination, or are due for a booster, make the most of local vaccination sites which include pharmacies, GPs, the Respiratory Clinic in Tewantin and the Queensland Health clinic at Noosa Leisure Centre, the Mayor said.

To find more details, including booking links, please visit the Vaccine Clinic Finder.

“We know rapid antigen tests are still hard to find, but our local testing facilities are back up and running, including the drive-through clinic at the Weyba Rd AFL grounds and the pop-up clinic in Hastings St.”

Opening hours can be found on the Queensland Health website.

“We’re also sourcing rapid antigen tests for businesses to help them quickly get on top of outbreaks and reduce staffing impacts as we know many businesses are struggling to open. 

“Our own Council facilities are facing similar issues, with recent closures at Noosa Aquatic Centre and Noosa Regional Gallery.

“If you have concerns about your own health or the health of a loved one, please take this into consideration when thinking about visiting one of our facilities as COVID is widely circulating in our community with confirmed cases at most of our facilities.

“With positive cases and staff isolating, opening hours may change at short notice across more of our facilities in the weeks ahead - we appreciate your patience,” Cr Stewart said.

“We’re doing our best to ensure contingency plans are in place, and I encourage residents to make use of our online services wherever possible.”

Community Services Director Kerri Contini said Council’s environmental health officers were working closely with businesses to help them reduce risks to staff and customers and quickly deal with outbreaks and exposures.

“We will also continue to make Council venues available for use as vaccination clinics and testing sites as demand requires and logistics allow,” Ms Contini said.

Mayor Stewart encouraged residents to stay calm in the face of growing case numbers.

“It’s natural to be worried, but our vaccination rate in Noosa is above 95% and the health experts reassure us that for the majority of vaccinated people who contract the virus, the symptoms will be mild and typically only last a few days.”

Ms Contini said residents could be prepared by keeping over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen handy to help manage symptoms, as well as a thermometer.

“It’s worth making a plan to ensure you have enough food and other supplies while isolating, such as arranging a family member or relative who you can call on to drop off essential items.”