From the Mayor's Desk: We’re unlocked but not off the hook just yet
Published on 13 September 2021
It’s hard not to feel a little bit fortunate this week. A month ago, on 14 August, our beautiful shire went into lockdown. Then the bad news continued with two confirmed cases in Kempsey. I think it’s safe to say we all had a few nervous days right there.
We’ve seen on the news how some communities have struggled as one or two cases turned into dozens. Thankfully that was not the case here. We were lucky, but also our community did the right thing. We stayed at home. And now we’re getting the reward of coming out of lockdown.
Thank you to every single person who has worked from home, or who has worn a mask or who has handled home schooling.
Now we can all enjoy the return of some of our freedoms. But not all of them, and I would ask each of you to remain vigilant in following the regulations on mask-wearing and social distancing. It’s clear we will return to lockdown if cases emerge, so we need to take care.
Get vaccinated
I would also ask you all to keep booking in for vaccinations. Our GP and pharmacy networks are still receiving stocks of COVID-19 vaccines across the shire.
It would be good to see vaccination rates in the town of Kempsey in particular increase, to mirror the surrounding areas of South West Rocks, Crescent Head, Port Macquarie and Nambucca Heads. It is especially important for our residents aged 16-40 to step up. So if you know someone who is hesitating, please support and encourage them to take the step and get vaccinated.
Being fully vaccinated has helped me by providing the knowledge that I am doing my part to not only protect myself and my family but also the wider community. The more of us who take that step, the sooner we can get more freedoms and enjoy normal life again.
#KempseyCares
Finally, the #KempseyCares campaign continues to remind our community to support those local businesses that are struggling with the impact of health restrictions and lockdowns.
While lockdown is over, those businesses are still facing tough weeks and months ahead, after months of struggling. So now more than ever is the time to contribute to the local economy.
Check out some of the suggestions for how you can help at ksc.pub/kempseycares