In the light of 22 days without a local case of COVID-19 (as of 10 February 2021), the Society’s business meeting for February was held in person. At that meeting, the club decided that meetings would resume at the clubhouse from 17 February. (Update: as of 23 February, NSW is up to 37 days without a locally-acquired COVID infection.)

This is of course subject to change should the NSW government’s advice on the COVID situation deteriorate again. Meanwhile, we will continue to follow the official guidelines on keeping our gatherings “COVID-safe”.

One specific change is that we now have a QR code at the door, which you need to scan with the official Service NSW Mobile App‘s COVID Safe Check-in. It’s easy to use, and will help the Society to comply with government guidelines. If you don’t have a smart phone with the app, a visitor’s book will be available, or another member can sign you in as a “dependent” with their app.

All the other usual COVID safe practices will still be in force: hand sanitiser will be available, and numbers inside will be limited to ensure adequate social distancing can be maintained. Wear a mask if you would like further protection.

Of course, if you feel unwell, please stay at home, and get tested to be on the safe side.

For members who can’t make it up the club on the night, Zoom meetings will continue as before.

The formal weekly two metre nets, having served their “pandemic purpose”, have now concluded, though of course you can still call in on the repeater any time you like, including while you travel to and from the club!

Via the VK2WI news from Amateur Radio New South Wales: if you currently have any health concerns – the National COVID hotline is 1800 020 080, providing general advice; if you are feeling unwell, Healthdirect is on 1800 022 222. Both services are available 24 hours a day; and are a free call from most telephone services.