PPCC Coronavirus Communication

28th Mar, 2020

“PPCC Communication”

March 2020

Hi all….Welcome to this ‘special’ Coronavirus edition of the PPCC Communication.

The world as we know it has changed dramatically since December 2019 with the advent of the yet to be controlled Covid-19 virus. (Coronavirus) We are all aware of and probably sick of hearing about it but reality has hit with a large number of positive tests results in Australia.

As of today (Monday 23^rd) our state has 134 confirmed positive cases with 34 added overnight to the 100 confirmed up to yesterday. Today’s news has now identified a positive test in Whyalla which is getting very close to home.

Last night following the ‘National Cabinet’ meeting, the PM outlined the changes we will all now experience in the way we live our lives as of today.

‘PM Morrison announces dramatic restrictions on businesses’

He announces tough new measures on social distancing, which will see some businesses close from midday tomorrow. The restrictions are significant. This is only stage one of the social distancing regime, he says. From tomorrow (23^rd March), at midday, the following businesses will be closed or restricted in their trade.

Registered and licensed clubs
Licensed premises in hotels and pubs. Entertainment venues and cinemas, casinos and nightclubs.
Restaurants and cafes will be restrict to takeaway only. Indoor sporting venues.
Places of worship.
Enclosed spaces for funerals and things of that nature will have to follow the strict four square metre rule which will be enforced.
Importantly, bottle shops will be exempt. They will not be restricted because they are not a place of gathering.
Home deliveries and takeaway food businesses will continue.
Morrison said this was only stage one of the social distancing measures. If Australians fail to adhere to the rules, more draconian measures will be introduced.

^{_{The Guardian, Sunday 22nd March 20120}}

My thoughts in regards to the PPCC....

We too should be practicing the 1.5 metre distancing while riding as well as coffeeafter each ride. In actual fact, we should be obeying the 4m square space per person rule and the 1.5 metre distance while sitting in the shelter (coffee) area.

After watching the PMs address last night, I contacted the PPCC Secretary and Treasurer with thoughts of introducing the ‘social distancing rules’ to our club. Although not yet in Port Pirie, it is only a matter of time before we too are dealing with this terrible virus.

My initial concerns were for the health of our 'after ride hosts' as we accept their hospitality at their home with coffee and eats after each ride 3 days a week. Upon reflection, it’s all of us that are at risk as we congregate to solve the world’s problems over coffee after each ride.

After a meeting with after ride hosts tonight and with phone calls to both the PPCC Secretary and Treasurer, the decision was taken out of my hands to introduce the 1.5 metre distancing at coffee with our hosts reluctantly and sadly asking that we suspend congregating at their home for the unforeseeable future. Both were more concerned about the PPCC members being put at risk of contracting the virus and are also taking advice from their respective specialists on ‘social distancing’.

I think as a club we need to lead the way and be responsible and practice what the local and federal governments are proposing to combat the spread of this virus.

So, as of Tuesday 24^th March……

No after ride coffee and socialising as a club and please now ride single file at the preferred distance of not less than 1.5 metres for the unforeseeable future. Please respect your fellow riders rights and adhere to the now legislated ‘social distancing’ rule while riding as a group. Hopefully we can all play our part in preventing the spread of this virus.

BikeSA:

‘Bike SA is reviewing the COVID-19 situation daily and will continue to provide up-to-date information to the community and ride groups.

The Federal Government has made several announcements regarding coronavirus, which will have an impact on sport and recreation for South Australians.

We have advised the ride groups delivering our state-wide free Rides Programme that they are free to cancel their rides until further notice. If they wish to continue, Bike SA suggests limiting the number of riders per group to 10 and to ensure as much as practicable, that riders maintain a 1.5m distance from each other before, during and after the ride.

To help minimise the risks of COVID-19 spreading within your cycling community:

Wash  your hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. 
Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth;
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Isolate yourself at home if you feel sick or have a low-grade fever (greater than 37.3 degrees). If you take medication, ensure you have adequate supplies.
Self-isolate for 14 days if you are returning from overseas.
Phone your GP first if you need medical attention. They will tell you what to do.
Continue healthy habits: Exercise, drink water, get plenty of sleep, and now is the time to quit smoking. Call the Quitline 137 848.
Don't wear a face mask if you are well.
Buy an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with over 60 per cent alcohol.
Get the flu shot (available April).
Avoid shaking hands.
Avoid attending public gatherings or events.’