Waroona Recreation Centre staff and patrons left confused as Statewide mandatory vaccination begins

Staff and patrons of the Waroona Recreation Centre have been left confused by mandatory vaccination rules, with attendees not requiring vaccination to access many of its services, which some say is contrary to their understanding of the WA Government’s new jab rules. Statewide proof of COVID vaccination requirements came into effect on Monday, with all hospitality venues, nightclubs, bottle shops and specified entertainment venues requiring double dose vaccination. Under the new rules, gyms, indoor sporting centres and health clubs all require patrons to be vaccinated, except when community sport is being played. Despite this, the Shire of Waroona has been informed only the gym and group fitness session participants require vaccinations, meaning the pool and indoor courts are able to be used freely, which has left some centre staff and attendees puzzled. Waroona Shire chief executive Mark Goodlet said his staff sought to clarify the new directions as soon as they were released. “The response that we got back was that it was our spin cycle classes and gym only that require proof of vaccination. “We simply sought the clarification and have let the public know when they come to the facility what those rules are.” Shire president Mike Walmsley said he felt for businesses, customers and staff of the area who were being given new and sometimes contrasting information every day. “There have been changes and it’s been pushed on to (these staff) to almost be the police of it all,” Mr Walmsley said. “People could be forgiven for not keeping up with it all . . . and being confused. Mr Walmsley said whilst he had sympathy for residents, it was still imperative everyone within the Shire did their best to follow restrictions. “We are an arm of the State Government and whatever they impose on us, we have to do,” he said. “Keep being as informed as you can possibly be.” Mr Gooldet said the Shire was doing everything it could to help people understand new developments in WA’s ever-changing COVID situation. “I know it can be confusing, it was confusing for us, so we have got that clarity and now we have some direction,” he said. “We try to take these things in our stride and meet the requirements while being able to be clear with the public. “We are meeting regularly with our customers, and are doing our best to keep both our customers and our staff safe. “We acknowledge this is a moving target and the responses will change, that’s the way things are and we are not going to blame anyone for that.” Mr Goodlet said there had been no indication from the State Government on when the current rules would end, but said as time progressed, the Shire was prepared for further restrictions.