News Article
COVID-19 Information
Testing Advice and Information
If you have any of the symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), however mild, you should seek advice and get tested. Symptoms include: Fever; chills; cough; sore throat; shortness of breath; runny nose; loss of sense of smell or taste.
Visit the Bairnsdale Regional Hospital website for more information about asymptomatic and symptomatic testing.
Bairnsdale Respiratory Clinic, Forge Creek Rd (behind the RSL) remains open. Check booking website for opening hours and appointments, or call 4116 2014.
For all other enquiries about COVID-19, please call the Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 or visit dhhs.vic.gov.au/Coronavirus
Face mask changes
From 11:59pm Friday 26 March 2021: You must always carry a face mask with you at all times when you leave the home, unless you have a lawful reason not to. Face masks must be worn:
- on public transport, in commercial passenger vehicles such as taxis and ride share vehicles, and in tour vehicles
- by visitors to a hospital or health service or care facility (while indoors)
- on flights to and from Victoria and at airports
- if you are diagnosed or suspected of having COVID-19, or a close contact of someone diagnosed with COVID-19, when leaving your home/accommodation (for a permitted reason)
- while awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test when leaving your home/accommodation (for a permitted reason)
- while experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19
COVID-19 Vaccine
Click here for the latest news and information about COVID-19 vaccines in Australia. For any concerns contact the Department of Health Hotline: 1800 020 080 (open 24 hours, 7 days).
East Gippsland Wear a Mask Campaign
Click here to view the East Gippsland Wear a Mask Campaign. We've worked so hard to protect those we love, let's keep doing the right thing - wear a mask and wear it right. For your family and your community.
COVIDSafe Settings
Visit the website For more information on how to have a COVIDSafe Settings. For any concerns contact the Coronavirus Hotline: 1800 675 398 (open 24 hours, 7 days).
QR code service
The Victorian Government QR Code Service is now available for use, and is free for all Victorian businesses and venues. These records help contact tracers in the event a positive case of coronavirus (COVID-19) is identified. Businesses and venues can register here for their unique QR code to display for visitors to scan and check-in.
Covid-19 DHHS Promotional Material
The Department of Health and Human Services have a range of promtional materials available via their website.
Free Online Infection Control Training
The Federal Government is offering workers across the health, aged care, disability and childcare sectors access to a free online training module (approx. 30 mins) on infection prevention and control (IPC) for COVID-19. Cick here to register.
Council services
For up to date information about Council operated services i.e. playgrounds, caravan parks, libraries, etc. and also face masks for vulnerable people visit their website or call (03) 5153 9500.
HeadtoHelp Hubs Open in Gippsland
HeadtoHelp is a free service open to Victorians of any age who may be experiencing distress or mental ill health.
HeadtoHelp will consider a person’s financial situation if recommending other fee-paying services. Our teams include mental health nurses, social workers, peer workers, alcohol and other drug workers, and other allied health professionals who work with GPs and psychologists to support you through telehealth, or onsite at a hub.
To find out more call 1800 595 212 or go to https://headtohelp.org.au/our-locations/.
Useful links/resources
COVIDsafe App
Federal Economic Support. For information on Federal Government support packages for individuals and businesses impacted
Victorian Economic Support. For the latest Coronavirus Business Support information
Funded Agency Channel Sector information, guidelines and advice
Beyond Blue Guide to Mental Wellbeing
Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7) or online chat
1800RESPECT:List of safety apps
The safe steps family violence crisis response phone line 1800 015 188 (24/7)
Lookout website - Frequently asked questions on COVID-19 and family violence
Promoting healthy eating during Covid-19, Healthy Eating Advisory Service resources
Acheivement Program handpicked Covid-19 resources
Supporting children during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Rolling updates on the coronavirus disease, World Health Organisation
A collection of coronavirus (COVID-19) campaign resources for the general public
COVID-19 Multilingual Resources: Plain English and available in 7 community languages
OEPCP At Home Tips and Ideas
Coronavirus: Resources for anxiety, stress & wellbeing
VicHealth Coronavirus Resource Hub
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Guidelines for Annual Information Statements
Federal Economic Support. For information on Federal Government support packages for individuals and businesses impacted
Victorian Economic Support. For the latest Coronavirus Business Support information
Funded Agency Channel Sector information, guidelines and advice
Beyond Blue Guide to Mental Wellbeing
Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7) or online chat
1800RESPECT:List of safety apps
The safe steps family violence crisis response phone line 1800 015 188 (24/7)
Lookout website - Frequently asked questions on COVID-19 and family violence
Promoting healthy eating during Covid-19, Healthy Eating Advisory Service resources
Acheivement Program handpicked Covid-19 resources
Supporting children during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Rolling updates on the coronavirus disease, World Health Organisation
A collection of coronavirus (COVID-19) campaign resources for the general public
COVID-19 Multilingual Resources: Plain English and available in 7 community languages
OEPCP At Home Tips and Ideas
Coronavirus: Resources for anxiety, stress & wellbeing
VicHealth Coronavirus Resource Hub
The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Guidelines for Annual Information Statements