STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED INTERSCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS POSTPONED
16 March 2020
Effective Monday, 16 March at midday the Victorian State Government has declared a “State of Emergency” which will be in force for the next four (4) weeks, through to 13 April 2020. A link to the announcement is provided below:
https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/state-of-emergency-declared-in-victoria-over-covid-19/
The Equestrian Victoria (EV) Board and management would like to assure our Victorian Interschool participants, parents, officials, volunteers, supporters and sponsors that your health and safety is our priority.
As a result, Equestrian Victoria has no choice but to postpone the Leader Equine Victorian Interschool Equestrian State Championships scheduled to take place at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre (WPNEC) from 2 to 6 April 2020.
As we seek to reschedule the event, EV will:
- retain event entries and fees until a new date is communicated then action refunds if participants are unable to compete on the revised date(s)
- continue to adhere to governmental guidelines regarding the running of significant sporting events
- continue to communicate with the equestrian community on a regular basis.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank our membership and broader community for their continued support and emphasise that as you have supported us, we look to support you.
At the same time, we would also like to encourage our community to remain vigilant. Equestrian clubs should operate as normal until otherwise advised. Club and event organisers should encourage good hygiene practices by participants at their events and where possible provide an environment that supports this outcome.
Resources are available for download from the DHHS website, including printable posters and factsheets on practicing good hygiene that may help clubs and event organisers.
EV members are encouraged to act responsibly by not attending events or other equestrian activities if:
- you feel unwell, or are showing symptoms such as runny nose, fever, cough, sore throat or breathing difficulties; and/or
- you have been in close contact with someone who has coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
If you have come into contact with someone who has the virus or you are concerned you may be infected, please call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.
Health experts advise the best way to protect yourself from coronavirus is to pay attention to good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene, by:
- Washing hands often with soap and running water, for at least 20 seconds. Dry with paper towel or hand dryer.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow.
- Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
Clubs and event organisers are also encouraged to check the government website regularly for up to date information.
For the latest information on coronavirus visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Equestrian sport in Victoria is in a strong position with a focus on continual improvement for great experiences. We look forward to resuming the delivery of successful events where our members can enjoy the opportunity to live their equestrian dream.
Matthew Brown
Chief Executive Officer - Equestrian Victoria
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