Police taking action to protect community

Superintendent Andrew Hurst says everyone must take the threat of COVID19 seriously for the sake of the whole community PHOTO TWH

Anyone who leaves their house without “reasonable excuse” could spend up to six months in gaol and face and an $11,000 fine under emergency laws passed by the NSW government.

The new public health laws give police sweeping powers to enforce new restrictions designed to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

With new powers to charge residents who flout social distancing regulations, Bourke police are appealing to the community to obey the ministerial directions about social distancing and self-isolation to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A reasonable excuse includes necessary household shopping, travelling to work or education that cannot be done from home, exercise, medical or caring or compassionate reasons. The ban includes gatherings of more than two people in public places unless for work or education.

Read more in the printed edition of the Western Herald.