No doubt you have heard in the media about the unfolding international Novel Coronavirus situation. With schools across NSW returning for the year and ahead of Scouting activities resuming this weekend, Scouts NSW has developed the following approach to guide our members with respect to risks arising from Coronavirus.

Scouts NSW has adopted the advice provided by the NSW Department of Health and the NSW Department of Education to parents with respect to Coronavirus.

At the time of sending this email, the NSW Department of Education, in consultation with the NSW Department of Health, recommends that students who have visited China in the last two weeks not attend school or childcare services until 14 days have lapsed from their date of departure from China. Scouts NSW has decided the same policy will apply to Scouting across NSW.

Please bear in mind this advice provided by the NSW State Government could change as authorities review the information at hand.

This is an evolving situation so please retrieve the latest information directly from the official NSW State Government website prior to communicating this information to your members ahead of your activities.   

A link to the NSW State Government website is available under ‘Safety Alerts and Legislative Updates’ on the Health and Safety page of the Scouts NSW website.

I would be most grateful if could ensure this message is passed on to everyone in your Scout Group, as appropriate.

With best wishes,

Yours in Scouting,

Neville Tomkins OAM JP

Chief Commissioner

Scouts NSW