Customer Service Centres, Stawell Sports and Aquatic Centre and all library services in Stawell and St Arnaud will be closed during Stage three restrictions.

All other services remain open via appointment or with additional safety measures in place.

The Maternal and Child Health program will provide consultations predominantly by telephone, or other electronic means. Face to face consultations will not take place unless an appointment has been made beforehand.

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Positive Aging services will continue including home care services and meals on wheels. Additional safety measures and contact screening are in place.

Playgrounds, skate parks and barbecues have closed from Thursday August 6 for six weeks. Water fountains will not be available to drink from and residents are encouraged to bring their own water and continue to use these parks and gardens for exercise. Amenities will also remain open.

Northern Grampians Shire Council Mayor, Murray Emerson, expressed his concern for fellow residents and the return to harsher restrictions.

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"It is quite sad that we find ourselves in this position again, returning to Stage three restrictions," he said.

"However, we need to do everything we can to keep our shire safe and to think of the health of others. I ask all residents to abide by the new restrictions and to be mindful of the very heavy penalties that can be applied if they do not adhere to them.

"Be kind, be sensible, and follow the new rules because the sooner we stop the spread of Coronavirus, the sooner we can go back to a more normal existence."

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If residents are concerned they may be showing signs of Coronavirus or have had close contact with someone who has tested positive, pre-booked tests can be made through Stawell Regional Health on 03 5358 8500.

Victoria entered a State of Disaster from 6pm on Sunday August 2 until Sunday September 13.

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