Central Coast coronavirus: 90 cases recorded across the region

As the Central Coast records its 90th confirmed case of coronavirus, it appears Sydney-siders are flocking to the region to self-isolate.

Cases have risen to more than 80 across the coast. Picture: Sue Graham

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The Central Coast region has 90 confirmed cases of COVID-19, according to latest health statistics.

NSW Health figures, updated on Sunday night, show the coast has recorded another 20 cases since Friday. This time last week the coast was at just seven cases.

Of the 3808 tests performed across the Central Coast, 2.36 per cent have returned positive results.

The Central Coast has recorded 84 cases. NSW Health

As the region creeps closer to its 100th case, and NSW hits 1918, tighter new shutdown restrictions have been introduced including fines for people who meet in groups of more than two or leave their homes without a reason.

Those who break the rules face on-the-spot fines of $1000 and even six months jail.

Sydney-siders flock to the coast

Many Sydney-siders are travelling to the Central Coast, Hunter Valley and Newcastle regions to self-isolate, according to the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) Northern Branch.

“There are increasing reports of Sydney-siders choosing to temporarily reside in the Central Coast, Newcastle and Hunter Valley during this lock down period,” Branch Assistant Secretary David Bliss said.

People are urged to respect retail workers. Picture: Sue Graham

Mr Bliss said while people were welcome to the region, they need to be reminded to treat retail workers with respect by following social distancing rules, using debit cards rather than cash and washing hands before entering shops.

“If you are a person who should be self-isolating, do not enter our workplaces,” he said.

“Stay at home. In the last fortnight the union has received several disturbing reports of customers, who should be self-isolating, visiting our stores. This is selfish and despicable.”

He said recent panic buying appeared to have subsided, however asked people to remain patient as stocks rebuild.

Central Coast Council's tips have closed to the public.

Central Coast tips close

Council has announced the closure of its waste management facilities at Kincumber, Woy Woy and Buttonderry to the public however normal rubbish collection will continue.

The facilities will remain open to council’s waste collector contractor, commercial waste collection contractors and small business.

In the meantime, people can book kerbside collections if needing to dispose of excess rubbish.

Mental health package

The Federal Government has announced a package to address the mental health needs of Australians during the COVID-19 health emergency.

This includes a mental health telehealth service expansion, COVID-19 portal, national mental health campaign and support line.

“The health and economic impact of this emergency, everything from job losses to physical isolation and illness, will have a significant flow on to our mental health and well being,” Dobell federal Labor MP Emma McBride said.

Dobell federal Labor MP Emma McBride said the current emergency would affect the health and well being of many people. Picture: Sue Graham

“We welcome these measures, and request further details on these measures, particularly around support for those on the frontline, and those vulnerable populations.

“We are also pleased the Government has taken up Labor’s call for an expansion of the Community Visitors Scheme for older Australians. There is more to be done – but this is an important recognition we must look after older Australians who are already at risk of loneliness and social isolation.”