By Jessica Micallef
Macedon Ranges locals and residents can again admire the beauty of Hanging Rock.
The iconic reserve reopened on June 23 with restrictions implemented to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
A limit on visitor numbers is in place and once the designated number of visitors are reached, the reserve will close for the day.
Visitors are being asked to visit the site early in the day. Normal entry fees will apply.
Barbecues are not available for use and some areas of the reserve, including the Discovery Centre and the very top of the Rock, will remain closed.
Visitors are asked to practice good hygiene, maintain appropriate physical distancing and not to visit the reserve if they are feeling unwell.
Increased cleaning will also be in place and the Hanging Rock Cafe has reopened for select days.
It comes as Llibraries in Kyneton, Woodend and Gisborne reopened to the public last week.
Romsey library will not open to the public immediately as it is currently being used to accommodate council staff, instead a click and collect service will remain available.
The council’s chief executive Margot Stork said the new arrangements would be subject to ongoing review.
“The health and safety of visitors and staff is our top priority,” she said.
“While government restrictions are easing, the council is taking a measured and careful approach to the reopening of all our facilities.
“Once appropriate measures are in place, we will look to reopen a service or provide access to public areas.”
Playgrounds, outdoor gyms, sports grounds parks and some public toilets across the region are available for public use.
Council-run pools, gyms, libraries, some public toilets, council service centres, community halls and sport pavilions remain closed.
Decisions regarding the opening up of services and any modifications in place will be made in the coming weeks.
Residents will be informed of any new developments.
For updates on council service changes and closures phone 5422 0333 or visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
For information on the click and collect service at Romsey library, visit: ncgrl.vic.gov.au/
