For the past 10 weeks, an expert panel has been helping the State’s sport and active recreation peak bodies come up with plans on how to return to their pastimes once the pandemic restrictions change.
Sport and Recreation Victoria said it had assembled the Return to Play Expert Panel to help address the complex process for state sporting associations (SSAs) to develop a return to play plan, as well as meet the directions of the Chief Health Officer to ensure safety and reduce the risk of COVID-19.
“Having a reviewed plan has been a priority for state sporting associations, as funding through Victorian Government coronavirus (COVID-19) response packages is contingent on having a plan in place,” Sport and Recreation said.
“As of 15 July, the expert panel received a total of 153 Return to Play Plans,” it said.
Chair of the Expert Panel, Lisa Hasker said advice and guidance had now been provided to all organisations as required.
“Feedback received shows that the sector has built a strong coronavirus (COVID-19) capability and readiness for return to play when that is possible,” Ms Hasker said.
Sport and Recreation Victoria said the Expert Panel also included Tim Owen from the Department of Health and Human Services; Ben Hartung and Louise Atwood from Sport and Recreation Victoria; Anthony Bowd from Vicsport; advised by health experts from an outside consultant.
