Dear members
As you would all be aware we are in the middle of a COVID pandemic. We have been very fortunate (or perhaps very well led?) to this point in time in this country.
As hockey players,supporters, officials and administrators we have done all we can to ensure you are kept up with the very latest advice – especially the HV generated Return to Hockey Guidelines.
These guidelines are issued after advice from Sport and Recreation Victoria and provide practical application of the Orders of the Chief Heath Officer who is empowered to make directions under Emergency Legislation.
The latest guidelines were issued last week and information swiftly placed on the GHA website as well as posted on GHA social media.
The latest version of the document (Return to Hockey Guidelines) contains some changes to the way we MUST operate. The guidelines again reinforce that everyone leaving their home must wear a mask both outdoors and indoors (unless inside your home). There are exemptions which are generally age or health related or when you are exercising. This includes, from our perspective an umpire actually umpiring a game as well as players on the field. At all other times we expect that anyone attending at Stead Park or King Lloyd Reserve should wear a mask at all times and preferably maintain 1.5 m separation.
COVID Marshalls
Another significant change is the introduction of a COVID Marshall. The COVID Marshall must be in place and be checking for compliance with QR codes. Failure could result in our access to the facility being withdrawn or possible fines for the GHA for non compliance.
We operate as a business and sport as a lessee of the City of Greater Geelong who have their own view, in their absolute discretion, as to whether we continue to have access.
So you can see that we are operating on a knife’s edge at all times. Any Police person, Council person or other authorised officer could shut us down at a moment’s notice. This puts significant pressure on the Association and people who do the Marshall duty. They do not need conflict or argument. They are volunteers just like you and are there to help protect you, your players and officials and ultimately the wider community.
It is therefore regrettable that on three separate occasions over this past weekend that we had issues with people entering Stead Park. There were no issues at King Lloyd Reserve. We have instructed/will be instructing our Marshall to not enter debate with anyone who outright refuses their request to use the QR code or wear a mask. They will be allowed entry. However they can be assured that details of the encounter will be kept. It is likely the failure to comply will be followed up with Police. This is part of our requirements and Duty of Care to our community.
We will not be putting ourselves in a position of financial or reputational risk. The Police have been contacted and attended once. We do not want to be “that” sport. Given their attendance, is it likely they will attend again – this time uninvited?
The best advice would be – If you wish to make a point do so by not attending at a hockey venue. Once this is all over or these conditions are removed these people will be welcome back.
Please ensure this message is distributed as widely as possible so that we and our COVID Marshals can do their job with a welcoming smile rather than a worried frown.
Peter Stuart
Hon. Secretary
Geelong Hockey Association