Central Coast Council is urging holidaymakers to rethink their travel plans and hold off from visiting the Central Coast during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said that everyone is urged to follow government guidelines about non-essential travel and stay home.

“In response to current restrictions and government guidelines, anyone considering travelling to our beautiful region is asked to please put your plans on hold for the moment,” Mayor Matthews said.

“Now is not the time to visit the Central Coast. We urge everyone to follow the guidelines about non-essential travel.

“The NSW Government is imposing fines up to $11,000 or up to six months jail time for anyone travelling for non-essential reasons, which includes travelling for any reason other than to purchase food or other essential goods and services, for work or education purposes, exercise or medical reasons. 

“Our community’s health and wellbeing is paramount, which is why I’m pleading with holidaymakers to stay away at this time, it is important for all of us. Especially as the Easter holidays approach,  everyone is encouraged to please stay at home and self-isolate to help reduce the spread of Coronavirus and ensure our entire community is kept safe.

“It is not forever, and we look forward to welcoming holidaymakers back once life resumes to normal and the restrictions are lifted,” Mayor Matthews said.

To assist with planning your future travel plans to the Central Coast visit www.visitcentralcoast.com.au

For the latest information on changes to Council services visit www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au and sign-up to Council’s weekly Coast Connect enews via www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/enews