Coronarvirus COVID-19 Update - Cancellation of Club Activities
In response to the State of Emergency declared last Monday morning for Victoria due to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic and on the advice of Rotary International, our District Governor and AG, the Board has decided to cancel all club activities for at least after Easter. This includes normal Club meetings, committee meetings, BBQ's and other fund raising/fellowship activities.
The majority of our members are in the vulnerable demographic and, while not large in numbers, we meet in public places where we cannot guarantee you will not be exposed to the COVID-19 virus. However, some Club activities will continue including St Silas Sunday Suppers and our Bookstall at Gasworks Farmers Market. These activities will be carried out under social distancing and personal hygiene guidelines.
As the COVID-19 pandemic and its far-reaching implications continue to unfold globally and in our community, it's normal for people to experience a wide range of thoughts, feelings and reactions. These include feeling stressed or overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated or agitated and feeling helpless. One of the most effective ways we can manage stress and anxiety is to focus on the actions that are in our control. Here are some ways you can look after your physical and emotional wellbeing during this challenging time:
- Learn how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 - practice good hygiene, self-isolation and social(physical) distancing.
- Acknowledge your feelings - its okay to feel this way.
- Maintain your day-to-day activities and a routine as much as possible - eating healthy and physical exercise can have a positive impact.
- Stay connected - family and friends are critical.
- Remember that physical distancing does not need to mean social disconnection - use technology to stay connected.
- Contribute - show care towards friends, family or vulnerable people in our community.
- Keep things in perspective.
- Seek accurate information - credible trustworthy sources (Australian Department of Health).
- Set limits around news and social media - constantly reading, watching or listening to media can intensify worry and agitation.
It’s important to recognise the seriousness of the public health challenge facing our community, and be mindful that reacting from a place of panic and fear is usually unhelpful, especially in the long-term. Looking after our wellbeing in times like this can help to reduce stress, and is crucial in enabling us to still take calm and effective action in the midst of this global crisis.
President