Message From The Mayor of Griffith City Council, Cr John Dal Broi

Supermarkets across Griffith were inundated with panic buyers, shelves were stripped clean and staff members were run off their feet.

I would like to remind everyone that this is unnecessary, dangerous and inconsiderate behaviour – supermarkets are an essential service and will not be closed over the next week, deliveries will still be made and stock available.

But if you clear out the shelves the way that has been done, you are not leaving anything behind for those who are unable to drop everything and rush out - think about those in our community who live week to week, who are elderly, disabled or have no access to transport. They will find empty supermarkets and will not be able to access essential grocery items due to this panic buying.

Not only that, but the sheer volume of people was astonishing with social distancing not being adhered to - you are putting others’ health at risk. “Please remain calm, remain sensible and consider those around you.

Essential services, including supermarkets, bakers, service stations, bottle shops, chemists and post offices will remain open throughout this seven-day lockdown.

It is important to remember we are all in this together, and need to ensure we are acting with the entire community’s best interest at heart.

Please listen to the advice from the NSW Government, adhere to the lockdown and restrictions and only leave your home if you absolutely must. Now is not the time to panic, it is the time to be calm, follow the directives and do everything you can to help stop the spread.

We are fortunate to not have had any cases here in Griffith since the beginning of the pandemic - which is all the more reason to remain cautious and level-headed.

We know these are uncertain and extremely difficult times, we understand that lockdown can cause undue stress, but it is essential that we follow the restrictions and health advice to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community.

NSW will be under lockdown restrictions until Sunday, August 22 at 12:01am. For further information about the lockdown, visit www.health.nsw.gov.au or call Services NSW on 13 77 88.

• Topics:

• Covid-19
• Community