I want to say a big, heartfelt thank you to all the members of our community who are doing the right thing and staying at home during this pandemic.

I know how challenging this is and what a huge disruption it is to our lifestyles, so I really value those of you who have made sacrifices in order to limit your movements outside the house. Your actions are saving our community.

Life is currently not the same as it used to be. There’s no more hanging out at the beach with mates. Coffees or coastal walks with friends must be placed on pause.

A good thought to hold on to, though, is that this is not the way it will always be. There will be an end to these changes.

In the meantime, when you do leave the house for exercise remember that we have lots of space to share. Sometimes this may mean running or walking on quiet streets instead of the Coogee promenade. Fresh air and exercise are essential, and our staff are still out there maintaining green spaces, we just need to avoid creating large crowds or gatherings.

We’re doing all of this for the very best reason there is – to look after others.

If we can slow the community transmission of COVID-19 we will ensure that the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are protected and we’ll prevent our healthcare system from being over-run.

We’re all in this together and we’ll get through it faster if we all commit to staying at home.

For more information about how Council is responding to the pandemic, please visit our dedicated COVID-19 page, which is updated regularly with news and information.