Wear a mask – it’s now mandatory

Everyone in Victoria must now wear a mask whenever they leave their house or risk a $200 fine.

The Premier said the move was designed to protect rural Victorians and keep regional numbers low.

Bass Coast is due to receive 4000 disposable masks from the state government for distribution to the most vulnerable in the community. Bass Coast Shire Council said the masks were expected early this week and would be followed by a shipment of reusable masks as soon as they became available. 

A council spokesperson said other service providers in the area would have access to similar quantities of masks, to ensure they were available to those who most needed them.

“Council has been liaising with local community partners and service providers to distribute allocated masks to those Victorians identified by the state government as vulnerable,” the spokesperson said.

The DHHS website includes a list of designated outlets for the free masks and a definition of who is considered eligible: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/reusable-face-masks-covid-19#who-is-determined-to-be-a-vulnerable-victorian.

The spokesperson said for Council staff, working indoors or outdoors, the mandatory wearing of masks came into effect from July 27.

“This added to the other hygiene methods already in place in order to provide a safe workplace. Most indoor staff are now working from home,” the spokesperson said.

DHHS advice

The DHHS website states that a face mask includes any paper or textile covering designed or made to be worn over the nose and mouth to protect the wearer.

It does not have to be medical grade and you can make your own. There are instructions on how to make a mask on the DHHS website (www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/design-and-preparation-cloth-masks-covid-19-doc).

If a face mask is not available other forms of face covering may be used such as a scarf or bandana. These options aren’t ideal but are better that no mask at all.

There are exemptions for children under 12 and those who have a medical or professional reason.

Anyone running or undertaking strenuous exercise can also go without a mask but is still expected to be carrying one at all times. The fine for not wearing a face covering is $200.

A full list of exemptions is available at: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-coverings-covid-19#lawful-excuses-or-exceptions-for-not-wearing-a-face-covering

Buy local

Disposable masks can be purchased from pharmacies, although local outlets are reporting some supply issues.

San Remo Pharmacy said they had completely sold out, but are expecting new stock this week. There would be a limit of one pack per customer when stock returned. Both Phillip Island Pharmacy and Priceline in Cowes said they had still had stock available, with purchase limits in place.

Locally made cloth masks are available at the following outlets:
* Somewhere over the Rainbow – Order via the Somewhere over the Rainbow Facebook page
* Hooliegan Designs – Order online at www.hooliegandesigns.com
* Cotton Onto Craft – Order at the Cotton Onto Craft Facebook page or call 5952 5202
* San Remo Hotel Bottle Shop – in store only
* Cape Winds, San Remo – instore only