The Council has put together an extensive plan to keep our beaches, parks and public areas open and safe during COVID. There will be extra flagged areas on beaches; increased cleansing of public areas; and a system of monitoring crowd numbers, with an escalating response, including closing the area if it becomes too full. Aerial drones, lifeguards, council rangers, council senior staff and police will all be involved in monitoring or dispersing crowds. The Council is also considering volunteer COVID Marshalls to help monitor busy areas.

Beaches and parks have all been assessed for their safe crowd capacity, with details on the Council’s website. In our area, Little Manly beach can have 300 people at high tide, and 700 at low tide ( bit of a stretch), and East Esplanade Park can hold 800 COVID-safely. West Esplanade 1100, Shelly Beach 500 and at low tide 1500 ( another stretch) and Manly Beach 2500, at low 4000. Little Manly Point Park suggests only 250 ( seems very low).

Cr Pat Daley’s motion for a total alcohol ban at East Esplanade Reserve did not pass when it went to Council last month. So despite the Forum’s concerns with the lack of social distancing, antisocial behaviour, and an apparent shortage of rangers and police, drinking until 8pm is on again at The Office.

Summer Action Plan Call for Volunteers

Do you want to make a difference and help keep our community safe? The Council is asking for Expressions of Interest from the community who would like to work alongside rangers and lifeguards to provide friendly reminders to the community about staying COVID safe during summer. While no experience is necessary they are looking for people over 18 who love to work with people and have a friendly disposition. Times, locations and days are flexible and training will be provided. Complete the Expression of Interest form in the online COVID-19 section of the Council website, or contact Council on 1300 434 434.