New date for Council elections
The NSW government has announced a new date for the local government elections – Saturday December 4. iVote (electronic voting) will be available for the first time and the NSW government has implemented changes to pre-poll to ensure that voters have 13 days to cast their ballot, reducing congestion on polling day.
Lockdown extended to August 28
It is no news really that NSW is now in an extended lockdown for another four weeks until 12.01am on Saturday August 28. Here is a short précis of the changes:
There is now a restriction for shopping within your LGA or 10km from home. Single people living alone can nominate a visitor from their LGA or within 10km and not from any of the LGAs listed as of concern. Year 12 students will return to face-to-face learning on August 16 under strict Covid-19 protocols.
The premier also announced more financial support for businesses and individuals, but at the time of writing had made no announcement about new assistance for individuals.
As so many recent cases of Covid-19 have been infectious in the community, it is more important than ever that we are all vaccinated. And don’t forget your masks.
Archibald Prize – Virtual Visit
While the Art Gallery of NSW remains closed, if you are an Archibald junkie, you can explore this 100th year of the Archies in a virtual 360-degree tour at https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/art/channel/virtual-visit/archibald-prize-2021/.
When you’ve finished your virtual tour, you can cast your vote in the ANZ People’s Choice Award for a chance to win a $2,000 cash prize.
Sydney Film Festival November 3-14
Sydney Film Festival has delayed the sale of single tickets for this year’s festival due to Covid restrictions. Go to https://sff.org.au or sign up for news and programs at SFFeNews.
Watch out for an increase in phone and email scams
There has been an increase in scamming during Covid-19, including impersonation of government departments like the National Crime Authority, MyGov and Australia Post, as well as online shopping, dating sites, fake charities, etc. We need to be vigilant as these scammers are expert in their deceptions, so it is important never to give out personal information. If you think you have been scammed contact www.scamwatch.gov.au/. You can also sign up for email alerts at this website.
Father’s Day September 5
This is a day to love and remember our fathers on their day, especially if you have been separated for some time. September 5 would mark 108 years since the birth of my own father in Scotland.
Wishing all our readers and friends a safe August, with the hope for a normal September and start of spring.
Until next time,
Pat Clarke
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volunteers@ssh.com.au
