Any residents who have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), no matter how mild, are urged to get tested after viral fragments were detected in the local wastewater.

A pop-up testing site has been established at East Grampians Health Service on Girdleston St, Ararat, from Friday 23 October to Sunday 25 October. It will be open from 9.30am to 5pm to ensure that all residents can access tests promptly.

There are a potential number of sources for the virus fragments, such as visitors to the region and people who have been positive, however are no longer infectious.

Further information can be found through the attached media release from the Department of Health and Human Services and through their website.

Ararat Rural City Council would like to remind the community that this is not a time to be fearful, but an important time to remain diligent, follow safety measures and get tested.