EQUESTRIAN QUEENSLAND CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE 25 March 2020

Equestrian Queensland will continue to provide members with regular updates regarding the evolving Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

On 23 March 2020, the Australian Government announced that non-essential gatherings were suspended for an initial four weeks period to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus (COVID-19) and to give both businesses and people time to fully understand social distancing requirements.

Australian Governement Department of Health - Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)

Equestrian Queensland advises that all affiliated equestrian events are to be suspended.

In line with Government recommendations, non-essential travel should be avoided until further notice.

Equestrian Queensland advises that any coaching activity must be carried out in accordance with all Commonwealth and State government COVID-19 requirements, advice and guidelines.

We recommend that coaches conduct lessons with only a single student at any one time in accordance with the following additional guidelines;

1. You must not attend a lesson if you:
(a) have travelled internationally or have been exposed to a person with COVID-19 in the last 14 days; or
(b) are at a higher risk i.e. over the age of 60 or have a pre-existing medical condition.

2. You must not attend a lesson if you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, no matter how mild.

3. If you become unwell whilst attending a lesson, you will be required to self-isolate immediately, contact the organiser and/or coach to advise them of your symptoms. Medical advice should also be sought if required.

4. The lesson must be held over a single day.

5. Only essential participants are to attend the lesson i.e. coach and/or member.

6. No canteen facilities are to be provided.

7. No office facilities are to be provided.

8. No sharing of equipment.

9. All attendees must practice the following social distancing measures whilst at the lesson:
(a) Minimise physical contact as much as is practicable, for example no shaking hands or other means of contact, no social gatherings;
(b) Ensure a distance of 2 metres is kept between themselves and others;
(c) Protective measures must be observed, such as regular hand hygiene practices before, during and after the activity.
(d) No spectators.

10. Adhere to all other Commonwealth and State government COVID-19 requirements, advice and guidelines that apply to coaching and the delivery of lessons.

Whilst the requirements above have been set for lessons currently carried out in Queensland, a risk assessment by the person responsible will still be necessary.

It is important to note that this information is subject to change as new advice becomes available.

Please check the Queensland Health website for updates.

We take this opportunity to advise members that should you require any support or guidance, please contact us on 07 3891 6611 or email [email protected]