Seven COVID-19 cases linked to south-west event

Western District Health Service chief executive Rohan Fitzgerald said the number of positive cases had grown to seven.

"Local residents are asked to remain alert, with seven confirmed cases now linked to a country music event held at the Hamilton Golf Club last week," Mr Fitzgerald said.

"The outbreak is expected to grow in the coming days, with over 160 people tested at the WDHS drive-thru clinic over the weekend.

"In addition to the seven confirmed cases, five people have also returned positive rapid antigen tests at the WDHS drive-thru clinic and are awaiting PCR test results."

Mr Fitzgerald predicted there would be further positive test results.

"Given the number of active cases, ongoing transmission in the community is likely, and we are urging people to get tested if they have symptoms, however mild," he said.

Mr Fitzgerald said one of the people who returned a positive test volunteered at The Birches aged care facility on Thursday morning.

"The Birches has enacted its COVID-safe plan, in consultation with the Victorian Aged Care Response Centre," he said.

"Additional cleaning has been undertaken, staff personal protective equipment requirements have increased, resident mobility has been reduced and residents who came into contact with the positive case have been placed in precautions.

"Residents and staff have been rapid antigen and PCR tested, with preliminary results coming back negative.

"The Birches facility is closed to visitors and contractors until all residents and staff who had close contact with the confirmed case return negative PCR tests."

Mr Fitzgerald said Hamilton Base Hospital would reduce its Theatre activity on Monday and Tuesday to allow for staff deployment to COVID areas and surge clinics.

"Due to the increase in active COVID-19 cases in our community, WDHS is re-locating its drive-thru testing clinic to the Hamilton Showgrounds on Monday and Tuesday," Mr Fitzgerald said.

The clinic will be open from 9am to 3pm, with entry via King Street.

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