Mayor calls for more vaccination support for the Clarence Valley

Published on 13 October 2021

Clarence Valley Council Mayor Jim Simmons has called on the State Government to “lift its game” and help residents and businesses in regional areas by providing better access to vaccination.

Cr Simmons said while Sydney residents have been the focus of a concentrated campaign to ensure the population is fully vaccinated, efforts have been more sporadic in rural and regional areas.

He said more designated vaccination centres needed to be provided across the Clarence Valley to improve access.

“Currently just a shade over 55% of Clarence Valley residents have received their second vaccination, which leaves us falling well behind the state average,” Cr Simmons said.

“The rural areas appear to have been forgotten by the State Government and we need a targeted campaign to encourage residents to roll up their sleeves and help improve local vaccination rates.

“Businesses that do not provide essential services will find it difficult to remain open until the end of November and local residents need to support these businesses by getting themselves fully vaccinated as soon as possible.

“The State Government needs to lift its game with respect to support of the bush.”

At this stage of the reopening process, density limits apply to all council settings.

Masks are still required indoors in all council venues and facilities, including our customer service centres.

Some council services are currently only open to those who are fully vaccinated, including libraries, museums, Grafton Regional Gallery, Treelands Drive Community Centre and the Environment Learning Facility.

Members of the public are asked to carry proof of vaccination as that may be required to produce it on entry to any of these venues.

Find a COVID-19 vaccination clinic near you.