South-west residents concerned about returned overseas travellers not self-isolating or anyone who has coronavirus, or been in contact with an infected person, are being urged to contact the police assistance line on 131 444.
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Warrnambool police Acting Inspector Brett Jackson said south-west police members were supporting the recently implemented Operation Sentinel taskforce in response to COVID-19 across the local government areas of Warrnambool, Moyne, Corangamite, Glenelg and Southern Grampians.
He said checks on whether recent overseas travellers were self-isolating would be immediately conducted after that information was forwarded to police from the Department Of Health and Human Services.
"Dedicated Sentinel units are currently performing duties across our area under the direction of the DHHS and the Victoria chief medical officer," he said.
"These units will be performing compliance checks to aid in the reduction of the spread of the virus, impacting the health and safety of persons in the community.
"Operation Sentinel units will be visiting locations and businesses such as supermarkets, medical centres, bottle shops, convenience stores, hotels, gyms, restaurants, places of worship and cafes to ensure compliance with recently implemented restrictions."
Acting Inspector Jackson said Operation Sentinel units would also be patrolling populous public areas, such as skate parks, beaches, parks, gardens and other community points of interest.
"Police members will be conducting spot visits of those community members required to self-isolate or quarantine to ensure compliance," he said.
"During this time, we ask the entire community to continue to look out for each other and be mindful of your social distancing.
"We are all in this together and with compassion, support and respect for each other, together we will get through it."
Acting Inspector Jackson said details of Operational Sentinel were forwarded to police on Thursday and patrols in line with those guidelines started straight away.
He suggested that interested residents stay informed of the latest rules and restrictions by daily checking their regular news sources - such as The Standard.
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