COVID reaching Far South Coast 'inevitable' says mayor, urges everyone to follow rules

All of regional NSW was plunged into a seven-day snap lockdown at 5pm on Saturday, August 14.

It follows growing numbers of cases in the ACT, concerns about the potential spread of the virus into Far South Coast as many people travel there for medical appointments, sports fixtures and shopping and the mass exodus of Canberrans when the ACT lockdown was announced on Thursday, August 12.

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Cr Fitzpatrick believes it is inevitable that the virus will make its way into the Bega Valley "because there is so much interaction with the ACT".

He is urging everyone to be extra cautious saying it was imperative that everyone "follow the rules" and get tested if they experience symptoms or have been at a venue of concern.

"I know that people were frustrated over the weekend about the waiting time for testing (at South East Regional Hospital) but it is the only testing site available at this stage," he said.

"I would ask people not to take out their frustration on the staff. They are really stretched and working long hours. Southern NSW Local Health District staff are being deployed in locations outside the Bega Valley too," Cr Fitzpatrick said.

READ ALSO: Canberra's lockdown extended as aged care worker, student test positive

Staff carried out 603 tests in total on Thursday-Saturday but on Sunday an extra lane was installed for testing and a further 434 tests were carried out.

Member for Bega, Andrew Constance also raised the spectre of COVID coming to the coast saying "it is more than likely we will see that occur".

Both Cr Fitzpatrick and Mr Constance urged everyone to stay at home where possible and to reach out to neighbours, friends and family by phone, email or social media.

"We're experienced with the bushfires, we know what it takes to be resilient and positive. We need to look out for our teenagers and our kids too," Mr Constance said.

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