The Victorian Government has announced the modest easing of restrictions across Metro Melbourne (and Ballarat).

A summary of the changes is outlined below. For a detailed overview, see the Table of Restrictions.

Restriction changes for metropolitan Melbourne and City of Ballarat

From 11.59 pm Friday 17 September:

The most significant change is that there will now be one other reason to leave home for outdoor social interaction. The main changes are as follows:

• Travel limit extended to 10km from place of primary residence
• Socialise or exercise (up to four hours, with one other person plus dependants if they cannot be left unattended. The other person can be from another household).

Up to five people may gather from two households to socialise or exercise if everyone over the age of 18 has had two vaccination doses

Sailing is allowed for exercise – Subject to

• It is within 10km from home
• For up to 4hrs, once per day
• With a mask
• With one other person (plus dependents that cannot be left unattended)

Many people who do not store their boats at home will require them to access their craft. Sailors can

• Access Boats from open-air yards. So long as sailors can practice social distancing and other covid requirements, a facility such as a clubhouse is not entered.
• Sailors can access boats on moorings and marinas. However, so long as members can practise social distancing and other covid requirements, a facility such as a clubhouse is not entered.
• Boats may be accessed from storage or dry stacks, if done in a retail style, click and collect, covid-safe manner, and if the storage facility has this same understanding.

• Members should enter and exit the boat storage area as quickly as possible and not work on their boats or gather in groups within the yard.

This lockdown intends to restrict unnecessary movement to prevent the spread of the virus. We must be following the guidelines from the government. These are.

• encourage the practice of social distancing
• display the Service Victoria QR code at entrance points
• remind everyone that if you are experiencing any symptoms, you should get tested for Covid -19 and self-isolate until you receive your results.
• If you are eligible, get vaccinated

Further information can be found https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covidsafe-settings

Australian Sailing is meeting with Vic Sport next week to review the road map to return to sport. We hope to provide further information as it becomes available.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Australian Sailing's Victorian Regional Manager - Meaghan Densley: meaghan.densley@sailing.org.au