Gyms And Kids Sport Returns

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has welcomed news that Gymnasiums, yoga, indoor pools and dance studios can reopen within a fortnight and kids’ sport can resume across NSW from Wednesday 1st July, as more COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.

Mr Ward has today thanked members of our community for their patience as the NSW Government worked through the health advice for each industry.

“I have been inundated with requests to reopen gyms and commence kids sport. I have been taking these matters up directly with the Premier and asking for a pathway for these activities to return. Thank you to everyone who wrote to me about these activities,” Mr Ward said.

“We can safely open gyms and reintroduce childrens’ sporting events. Sport and exercise boosts morale and this is exactly what our community needs right now.”

From Saturday 13th June, the following will be allowed:

• Fitness, gymnasiums, pilates, yoga and dance studios can reopen with up to 10 people per class and 100 people in an indoor venue;
• Community centres, including their recreational facilities can reopen;
• Some indoor recreational facilities including pools and saunas can also reopen with restricted numbers;
• Tattoo and massage parlours can reopen with up to 10 clients

The four square metre rule must be applied at all times.

Community sport competitions can restart for those aged 18 years and under from Wednesday 1st July.

The NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said COVID-19 safety plans for each activity or sport are critical to enable this re-start.

“Sport and businesses will need to do things a little differently than in pre-COVID-19 times and following their safety plan is key to keeping people safe,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Re-opening kids’ sporting competitions on 1st July gives groups and local government which manages many of these facilities, time to work through all the new changes.”

Acting NSW Minister for Sport, Dr Geoff Lee said indoor and outdoor community sports for those aged 18 years and under are ready to return from 1st July.

“Children and young people will be thrilled they can get together with friends and teammates again and I am sure parents will welcome the news too,” Mr Lee said.

“NSW loves sport, and I am so pleased clubs and organisations will now be able to plan their fixtures list for their seasons to resume.”

A decision on a potential return date for adult community sport will be made at a later stage.