Hunter Valley police launched an operation on Friday to ensure compliance with the new stay-at-home orders.
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As part of the local response to the new restrictions for the Cessnock, Singleton and Muswellbrook local government areas, Hunter Valley officers will be undertaking high-visibility proactive patrols, compliance checks on businesses and individuals, as well as responding to all Crime Stoppers reports.
Cessnock, Singleton, Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter Local Emergency Management Committees have held virtual meetings/discussion chaired by the Local Emergency Operations Controller, comprising representatives from government, council and welfare services.
The committee will meet daily in a virtual environment to address the emerging and ongoing needs of the community.
Hunter Valley Commander, Superintendent Tracy Chapman, wanted to provide some clarity and certainty for the residents of the Upper Hunter.
"Our Upper Hunter communities particularly Scone and Aberdeen are not automatically subject to these orders, however you need to be aware that if you travel into the 'Stay at Home' area, then you are identified as an 'affected' person and must follow the same restrictions as the southern part of our district," Supt Chapman said on the police district's Facebook page on Friday.
"For example, if you are an essential worker in Muswellbrook but live in the Upper Hunter Shire, then you are subject to the same restrictions as the Muswellbrook, Singleton and Cessnock areas.
"If you enter the 'Stay at Home' area for any purpose, you are required to follow the same restrictions as outlined in the Public Health Order upon return to your home.
"I understand this will be difficult to manage and our local police will work with the community, however, we need to work together at this point in time to ensure we can contain this outbreak as quickly as possible."
Superintendent Chapman is also reminding people attending testing sites across the Hunter to be patient, as demand increases.
"Our local police and Traffic and Highway Patrol officers are working alongside Transport for NSW to manage congestion in the surrounding streets."
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.