COVID-19 Update
UPDATE 18/03/20
Dear Camberwell Family
A remarkable few days with the ground shifting constantly. Each day I have been thinking “surely it will stay the same today, at least”, but that has not happened yet.
The board have continued to monitor the situation, spoken to HV and other clubs yesterday and seen the actions of interstate associations and we are moving our position by suspending all operations at the Camberwell Hockey Club, with the exception of administration and maintenance.
The period of suspension will not have a finish date, but advice on this will be updated.
There are many committee members, coaches, players, members and supporters that will have many questions and we are currently working through the implications of this closedown.
Our key goal is to positively contribute to the social distancing strategies of the community which can only be useful, despite authorities lagging in their advice.
We wish all members and their families the best for this extraordinary period and look forward to throwing open the gates and welcoming you all back sooner rather than later at the appropriate time.
Regards
Simon Winter
President
UPDATE 17/03/20
Dear all
Hockey Victoria made this announcement today regarding the HV 2020 Season and COVID-19
https://hockeyvictoria.org.au/news/covid-19-information/
As I stated on Sunday Night, we intend to continue training and practice games with just players and official present. The junior training was well attended last night and seniors continues from this evening.
The HV announcement has considered the recommendations of the Government and their advisors and will continue with the season as scheduled. While this is subject to change, the Camberwell Hockey Club will stay on the same course as our announcement Sunday night (found below) and participate.
We will keep all of the arrangements in place as earlier announced at this time and review as required.
As you will read on the HV Facebook page, comments are across the spectrum as interested parties have differing views. This is no different from the views expressed by Camberwell HC community and as we have said, each player/family can make their own decision on the level of involvement.
We will continue to provide updates as they come to hand
Simon Winter
President
15/03/20
Dear Camberwell Family
The developments of the COVID -19 Virus are certainly not easy to keep track of. Watching governments across the globe respond in different ways and the subsequent actions of business, professional sports and communities gives no universal direction on how to approach this pandemic.
This announcement reflects the position as at the current date as the situation is fast evolving. The Board and Committees will be actively reviewing the Club’s position and providing further direction to members and visitors as appropriate.
The outcome we are seeking is to assist in minimising transmission of COVID-19. As guidance to minimise transmission please refer to the full list as per HA’s statement.
As such, until higher bodies set directions that we must follow, I am announcing the following response on behalf of the Camberwell Hockey club until further notice. Some may feel this too dramatic as others will see the measures as not going far enough.
As of Monday 16th March 2020:
We will scale activities back to hockey and admin only.
Social activities are not to be scheduled.
The canteen will not be opened.
The BBQ will not be used.
Gatherings upstairs inside the club and on the balcony are not to occur.
The change rooms will remain in use.
The Gym and Spa equipment must not be used.
Social distancing, personal hygiene and self-isolation are an essential contribution from all members and families.
Training and practice games may continue.
Each player/family may make up their own mind as to their participation. These activities are not compulsory and there are no consequences to missing either.
We will be asking that only those directly involved with the team and the games attend the club. (players, coaches, assistant coaches, managers and umpires)
We would ask that spectators do not attend the club other than to drop off or collect players. NOTE: the only exception to this is Parents with younger children that they must keep with them. Do not leave children in cars, but observe social distancing when at the club.
No shaking hands, “stick slaps” are the only form of respect pre and post games.
These measures obviously impact the Masters Finale on Monday night 16th March. As far as these games continuing, I feel that as HV have not cancelled any of their comps and so we can continue with these games as scheduled. I am asking that only those involved in the games attend.
The cancellation of the Season Launch as a celebration of the club pre season, can be rescheduled at another time as a “Celebration of Normality” returning. I am sure this will be something we will all embrace with great vigour.
I suspect that we may have another review as this continues to unfold and HA and HV may make announcements that remove all doubts about the season’s direction.
I believe that this suite of measures reflects the current situation, albeit a more conservative position. I am certainly more comfortable with trying to do too much than too little.
Updates to the position will be advised as the situation changes.
I wish all members, friends and families of the Camberwell Hockey Club the very best during this extraordinary situation and look forward to renewing the vibrant club atmosphere as soon as we possibly can.
Regards
Simon Winter
President