NAMBUCCA Valley Council says it is committed to doing everything in its power to reduce the spread of the coronavirus in the community - though it is not yet aware of any local infection cases.
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Council is taking "very seriously" the recommendations from health authorities and the State and Federal governments to immediately implement rigorous social distancing policies.
"These are unprecedented and challenging times not just for the Nambucca Valley but also for the nation," mayor Rhonda Hoban said.
"Statistically, the Nambucca Valley has a higher percentage of vulnerable people who are susceptible to this virus and to do nothing puts lives at risk."
As of Monday:
Council's Administrative Centre at Macksville will have reduced opening hours and will only be open to customers from 11am to 2pm weekdays. Members of the community choosing to social distance themselves can still carry out business with council via the website www.nambucca.nsw.gov.au, by emailing council@nambucca.nsw.gov.au or by calling the Business Services Unit on 6568-2555.
The libraries at Nambucca Heads and Macksville will be closed to the public until further notice.
The Gumma Reserve Camping Ground will be closed until further notice.
Council owned community buildings and halls will cease to accommodate non-essential events or meetings until further notice.
"Council will continue to provide essential services to the best of its ability as we navigate through this crisis," Cr Hoban said.
"A number of council staff will be working from home while others will be transferred to a different workplace in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus and ensure the continuity of council services, especially essential services such as water, sewer and road safety repairs.
"Circumstances can change rapidly and council will constantly reassess its operations and service provision. Any further changes to services will be communicated through the usual media channels, council's website and our Facebook site.
"NSW Health is the lead agency in trying to contain the pandemic virus and I encourage residents to continually monitor its website www.health.nsw.gov.au and its Facebook page 'NSW Health' for the latest up to date information."
Nambucca Valley Council reiterated the importance of social distancing, hand washing and good hygiene practices. If anyone believes they have any of the COVID-19 symptoms, they should seek medical help and avoid public areas.
"We must work together and look out for each other, our family, friends and neighbours," Cr Hoban said.
