Message from the Mayor - 1 June 2020

Today we see the next step in the return to a ‘new normal’ of council operations as the easing of social restrictions continues in Tasmania.

From today, members of the public can visit council chambers – for essential purposes only which cannot be achieved over the phone or online www.ccc.tas.gov.au.

There are strict procedures in place to manage the number of people in each area of the building at a time, and our customer contact team are providing a concierge service to ensure everybody’s safety. There is also signage in place and hand sanitising equipment available.

Please be advised that contactless payments are strongly preferred wherever possible.

We ask that before you attend the chambers you first phone ahead by call calling 03 6217 9500. This will ensure the relevant staff will be onsite to speak with you as many are working from home on a rotating basis.

I continue to be proud of our community and how we have dealt with the COVID-19 crisis. There is still a long way to go before it is over but if we can treat each other with respect and kindness it will be easier for everyone.

Please continue to go to the Tasmanian Government website https://coronavirus.tas.gov.au/ for the most up to day information on restrictions or for local support go to this page on council’s website https://www.ccc.tas.gov.au/covid-19-support.

Previous messages from the Mayor

Message from the mayor - 25 May 2020

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From today, Clarence City Council community halls, centres and ovals are open for use by the public.

There are some restrictions in place around the use of these facilities, but it is pleasing that as a community at large we are continuing to move in the right direction.

We are continuing to take a cautious approach to ensure the safety of the public as well as our staff, and we welcome you to phone our customer contact team on 03 6217 9500 if you need help from council.

From next Monday, 1 June we are planning to open the Council Chambers to the public with limited hours. We will still encourage all customers to attend their council business either on the phone or via our website- in line with recommendations from the Tasmanian Government.

From Monday, it is expected there will be a limit of 10 members of the public in the Chambers at a time, and a concierge service will be provided by our customer contact team. However, the finer details will be decided upon this week in line with any recommendations from the Health Department.

Contactless payments will be strongly preferred wherever possible, for the safety of staff.

Thank You

I’d like to thank you all for your patience so far and for adapting to the necessary changes. The COVID-19 crisis has been difficult for us all in one way or another but together we are working through these new challenges.

Message from the Mayor - 18 May 2020

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Today Tasmania enters Stage 1 of the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions by the State Government.

We should all be encouraged by this progress – but people must not become complacent, and continue to follow the current guidelines. To continue to keep this threat under control we all must practice social distancing measures and good hygiene.

The priority for council remains the health and safety of both the community and staff.

Staff are working towards opening council chambers and other facilities to begin the process of getting operations back to normal.  In order to ensure the safety of the community at large we are taking a gradual approach and will start reopening our facilities with parks, playgrounds, BBQs and skateparks today, and more facilities such as ovals and halls being opened gradually from next Monday, 25 May.

The full list of our opened and closed facilities can be found at https://www.ccc.tas.gov.au/covid-19-clarence-city-closures/

Playgrounds and Skate Parks opening today

All local parks and playgrounds are open for a maximum of 10 people who social distance, including both adults and children.

It is up to individuals to behave responsibly and adhere to the required limitations when accessing playgrounds or play equipment.

I ask you all to have consideration for each other, and to share the facilities fairly, especially if others are waiting to access the park.

Exercising common sense and being respectful of others will be more important than ever. Be aware non-compliance can be reported to Tasmania Police here www.police.tas.gov.au/services-online/tasmanian-health-hotline-form-for-reporting-non-compliance/ – but I hope it will not be required.

Council Chambers

The council chambers will be open next week for limited numbers.

We still encourage the public to continue doing as much business as possible with council from home, via the website www.ccc.tas.gov.au or by calling 03 6217 9500.

If you must visit the chambers, we ask that you phone first on 03 6217 9500 so we can ensure the relevant staff are available – as we still have many working from home.

Thank You

Thank you to everyone, we have worked hard and made sacrifices to get this far.

Now we need to continue to work together to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community, so we can continue to ease restrictions in the coming months.

The full details of the State Government’s easement of restrictions can be found here.  https://coronavirus.tas.gov.au/families-community/roadmap-to-recovery

Message from the Mayor - 12 May 2020

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Yesterday saw the first restrictions being lifted around Tasmania. It is an exciting time for many as it reflects the controlled situation our state has now seemingly managed to achieve around the COVID-19 crisis.

The changes to restrictions are now as follows:

  • Funerals – increase from 10 to 20 attendees.
  • Aged care visits – one visit per week and no more than two visitors, managed by the facility.
  • National parks and reserves – open to residents for exercise within 30km of their home.
  • TasTAFE campuses and training facilities open for invited small groups of students only attending practical learning and assessment sessions.

We have a number of Parks and Wildlife areas within our municipality which will now be open including the Meehan Ranges, Gordons Hill Reserve and Clifton and Hope beaches to residents within 30km of their home.

These changes will lead to council owned pathways and reserves being far less busy than they have since restrictions were put in place by PWS.

Of course it is important that no matter where you are exercising everyone must continue to observe the social distancing requirements and hygiene practises.

Tasmania is set to enter Stage 1 of restrictions next week on May 18th, if the COVID-19 situation in Tasmania continues to look manageable.  I will be posting more information on what this means for Clarence City Council’s facilities at the end of the week.

However, in order for the restrictions to continue to be eased as outlined by the Government here https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/families-community/roadmap-to-recovery it is essential that we all continue to adhere to restrictions until they are lifted.

 

Message from the Mayor - 24 April 2020

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It saddens me deeply, as it will many people, that we cannot gather for usual ANZAC Day dawn services, parades, marches and gatherings around Clarence this year.

RSL Sub-Branches right across Australia are not able to host the usual traditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the current restrictions, ANZAC Day can still be commemorated on Saturday from the safely of your own home.

RSL Tasmania asks that we commemorate the day “Together, but apart” – at home – by lighting a candle and observing a minute’s silence on your front lawns, in driveways or verandahs at 6am, to honour service men and women.

(image provided by RSL TAS)

The Australian War Memorial will go ahead with a private Anzac Day commemorative service which will be broadcast live across Australia by the ABC and streamed online.

You can watch it live on ABC TV, listen on ABC radio, or stream on ABC’s YouTube or Facebook feeds.

Message from the Mayor - 21 April 2020

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I would like to thank everyone who continues the advice to stay at home and observe social distancing when exercising or on essential outings.

The outdoor spaces in Clarence are unique to our municipality and we are very lucky to have them nearby during this unprecedented time so we take care of our physical and mental health.

The State Department of Parks and Wildlife has closed all areas under their operations, including those which fall in our municipality, such as the Clarence Mountain Bike Park, Gordon’s Hill and some beaches. TasWater has closed Risdon Brook Park.

As a result, there has been a huge increase in both pedestrian and bike traffic on Council operated tracks and trails which remain open.

See a list here of what Clarence Council areas are closed https://www.ccc.tas.gov.au/covid-19-clarence-city-closures/

I understand it can be frustrating with so many people using the same areas at the same time.

We are all feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in different ways, please be mindful to be kind. I ask you to use common sense by sticking to the left, use a bicycle bell and treat each other with respect at all times.

Message from the Mayor - 17 April 2020

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As many people return to work after an extended Easter Break the COVID-19 crisis continues to have a global and local impact.

The effect in Tasmania, like the rest of the world, continues to change with each passing day and we must maintain our vigilance towards keeping the wider community safe.

Here in the South of the State so far there has only been a slow increase of cases but, as you probably already know, the outbreak of the COVID-19 in the North-West of Tasmania has risen sharply in recent days.

This is having huge impacts on the North-West communities with thousands of people in quarantine, closure of hospitals, and even tougher restrictions.

To avoid this happening in our municipality it is important everyone maintains social distancing practices and observes the restrictions we have in place.

Our Council does not want to introduce another layer of rules and regulations.

With increased mixed activities on our tracks, trails and path networks it is important to take practical measures and apply common sense so we can all enjoy these outdoor spaces when we need it most.

We all need to adapt to the situation, remember everyone is affected, and treat each other with respect.

Message from the Mayor - 9 April 2020

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The Easter break is upon us but during the COVID-19 crisis, Easter will be different for us all.

Many residents will have an extra-long weekend but it is essential we all follow current restrictions and guidelines and stay home, this will save lives.  Brighter days are ahead if we all stick to the rules.

While it’s important we all get outside and exercise for our well-being, I urge you to continue to respect social distancing requirements and remain in your local area.

This week new measures put in place by the State Government mean that those wishing to get out on the water are only able to launch their boats within the municipality they reside in.

The new measures add to regulations in place for shack owners, who can only visit their shack for urgent repairs or a security check.

It is normal to feel frustrated that you can’t visit your shack, go camping or participate in other Easter traditions. However, consider it is a small sacrifice to make for just one year if it means lives are saved.

Stay connected by calling your friends and family, and in place of other Easter activities, try making new traditions at home, baking together as a family or playing new games.

Council will continue to provide essential services, but general operations will be closed from tomorrow 10 April to Tuesday 14 April 2020, reopening via telephone, email, web and Facebook at 8.30 am Wednesday 15 April 2020.

Message from the Mayor - 6 April 2020

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Dear Residents,

The COVID-19 crisis has brought many new challenges never seen before. We are all affected by this, at a local, national and global level, whether directly affected by the virus, or by the necessary restrictions that have been put in place to flatten the curve. The Clarence City Council is adapting to the changing environment brought on by the effects of the COVID-19 virus and continues to work to best serve the community.

Many issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have already been faced and tackled head-on by the council. Any new issues which arise will continue to be managed in a pro-active manner to both prioritise the safety of the community and well-being of residents.

I understand that the ‘Stay at Home’ period has been difficult for all. Council staff, like other workplaces, have put in new measures to keep staff safe while working to keep the delivery of essential services as normal as possible.

At the council meeting of 6 April 2020 the COVID-19 Clarence City Council Community Support Package was approved to assist both individual ratepayers and businesses within the City. It has been developed to allow people to get through this crisis in the best way possible, and recognises that many in our community will suffer detrimental financial, social and health impacts.

The package includes the following key community support measures:

  • Council will not apply penalties, charges, interest or undertake debt collection for late rate payments until at least 30 June 2020.
  • Council approved a new COVID-19 Financial Hardship Policy that will provide the basis for the General Manager (or delegate) to assess hardship claims in relation to the payment of rates.
  • In accordance with the new Hardship Policy, council will provide rental relief on council-owned buildings and other premises where tenants and/or leaseholders are experiencing financial hardship until 30 June 2020.
  • Refocussing of the regular community grants program to support local businesses, not-for-profit organisations and community organisations recover their operations to help build resilience, until 30 June 2021.
  • As a means of supporting local business recovery and injecting funds into the local economy in a timely manner, council will settle creditor invoices within 14 days of receipt (or sooner), irrespective of normal or contracted trading terms.
  • Council will adopt a zero% rate increase of the general rate by fixing the general rate for the upcoming financial year (FY2020/21).

City of Clarence ratepayers and tenants of council-owned properties are encouraged to apply for assistance as soon as possible if they meet the criteria. Full details of the package and criteria can be found on the council website.

Clarence, Keep Connected is another new initiative council has been established to support the well-being of the community. While many people have felt more isolated, others in the community have wanted to reach out in new ways to support those who are vulnerable.

Through this consultation and other measures council will endeavour to make sure everyone in the community is taken care of, especially our most vulnerable people.

I wish the thank the community for their understanding during this time as we all face many unprecedented challenges in many parts of our lives and I am grateful to all those frontline and essential workers who have kept our community going through these uncertain times.

While it is a difficult time in many ways, I believe the Clarence Community will emerge stronger from the COVID-19 crisis with many of us learning new skills and being most grateful for this beautiful place in which we live and work.

For up to date information from the State Government on COVID-19 please go to https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/

Council can be contacted via the email clarence@ccc.tas.gov.au or phone 6217 9500.

Message from the Mayor - 2 April 2020

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There are many among us who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain, as all Tasmanians facing new restrictions and uncertainty brought about by COVID-19.

I ask that despite the confusion this unprecedented situation brings that now, more than ever, we all treat each other with respect and kindness.

This includes when interacting with council staff who are doing their utmost to make sure operations for essential services can continue.

We all need to be more tolerant and mindful of own behaviours and effects on others around us and those we deal with.

Council is currently focusing on essential services and this means that other requests may take longer to process than usual. Many of our staff are working from home, in line with Federal and State Government recommendations, or are operating outside of their usual roles.  This has impacted on how the council responds to phone enquiries which may include a delay to ensure the right person responds to your enquiry.

All requests will be recorded, but not all issues can be investigated during these times unless it is rated as a high priority.

The council will continue to provide most of its services online and is still open on 6217 9500 or by emailing clarence@ccc.tas.gov.au during business hours Mondays to Fridays.

If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed by the rapid changes and tough restrictions, know you are not alone in feeling that way. COVID-19 affects everyone in different ways.

  • Lifeline continues to be operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week call 13 11 14
  • Lifeline Text 0477 13 11 14 will continue to operate 6pm – midnight (AEDT), 7 nights a week
  • Lifeline webchat will continue to operate 7pm – midnight (AEDT), 7 nights a week
  • Kids Helpline – for children that may need support 1800 55 1800
  • https://kidshelpline.com.au
  • Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 https://beyondblue.org.au

Mayor's Message - 31 March 2020

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The effects of COVID-19 continue to become more serious with two deaths from the virus and strict restrictions are in now place to prevent further spread.

While there are many tough measures in place Clarence City Council has decided to leave some parks, reserves beaches and other outdoor areas open for use by the community.

This is to allow residents to exercise and maintain both physical and mental health.

Social distancing must always be maintained when utilising these available outdoor spaces.

This means only two people can meet and must maintain a safe distance from all users of the facility. 

Police and Defence Force personnel will be enforcing restrictions and if social distancing is not observed Council will have to close all outdoor spaces as has already been done in other municipalities.

Most non-gated parks and outdoor areas are still available to be used including;

  • The Bellerive Dog Park.
  • Park Rotunda’s and picnic table areas (not BBQs).
  • All beaches apart from Clifton and Hope beaches that are closed because they are both within a State Reserve.

If you are unsure about your local facility please check our list of closed facilities here https://www.ccc.tas.gov.au/covid-19-clarence-city-closures/

I reiterate all users of any open facility, park or grounds are requested to ensure they take appropriate personal hygiene procedures and maintain social distancing when entering and using these facilities.

Clarence City Council is adhering to the advice from the Australian and State Governments with many staff now working from home.

As we work towards an essential service model during the COVID-19 pandemic I ask you to be patient and work cooperatively with council as the whole community is under stress.

Mayors Message - March 30 2020

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Clarence City Council has received numerous enquiries about rate instalments due 31 March, 2020.

If people are unable to pay this instalment they should contact staff to register and advise them of their circumstances.

I would like to reiterate that Council, as a matter of priority, is considering measures to minimise the impact of rates on those facing financial hardship, including deferring payments, waiving penalties and interest, and ensuring that our budget does not increase next year.

Mayor's Message - 29 March 2020

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In these unprecedented and challenging times, the Clarence City Council is doing everything in its power to ensure we are there to help and there is as little disruption to our regular operations as possible.

The response to the COVID-19 pandemic is necessarily changing every day so I intend to provide regular updates.

While our Council Chambers are closed to the public until further notice we can still be contacted during regular business hours on by phoning us on 03 6217 9500 or via clarence@ccc.tas.gov.au, or through the Clarence City Council Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ClarenceCityCouncil/.  Our out-of-hours numbers are still as follows:

  • For all incidents that immediately threaten life call 000 for police, ambulance or fire.
  • For all incidents that immediately threaten livestock or property or may cause environmental harm call our after-hours number on 03 6217 9700.

At this time we are still planning for:

  • Council operated School Holiday Programs continuing at the Lindisfarne centre from 6 April.
  • The Rosny Childcare Centre remaining open. This includes during the school holidays.
  • While cash or cheque payments can be made at Australia Post, you are encouraged to make any payments to Council by cheque through the mail or online at https://www.ccc.tas.gov.au/living/home-property/payments-rates-fees/

It was with considerable sadness that we had to close the Clarence Biennial Open Art Exhibition to the public however our innovative Arts & Events Team curated the exhibition for online viewing.  You can view the collection of 270 artworks by 163 artists by clicking here and find the winners here .

The aldermen and staff at Clarence City Council encourage you to prioritise your health, stay home wherever possible and avoid gathering in groups.

Please follow the requirements published by government

For consolidated information on COVID-19 go to https://www.australia.gov.au

If you require more information on any of the points above or have any inquiries about any council-related matters, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Mayor's Message - 27 March 2020

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We are clearly in a very challenging and rapidly changing situation and Council is aware of the risks and uncertainty that many of you are facing.  Over the last week we have been working on strategies and actions to help where we can.

There have been numerous enquiries regarding rates.

Along with the State Government’s financial relief measures, Council will be doing all it can to assist further those in financial trouble.

Immediate options to be considered at our next Council meeting include introducing a generous hardship policy to allow those financially troubled to defer rate payments due by 30 June 2020 without incurring penalties or interest, and ensuring that our overall rates do not increase next year.

Your Aldermen are also exploring other ways to financially help community groups as well as individuals and I will keep you informed as more information comes to hand.