Clubs returning to face to face bridge
The ABF as the national administrative body of bridge in Australia does not have any authority in regards to the running of bridge clubs, we can only issue advice and make recommendations. It is up to each club to determine when they reopen, based on the Federal and local restrictions on activities, the sharing of equipment and social distancing rules.
Many States and Territories are asking clubs to complete and display a Covid Safety Plan as it explains the steps a club will implement to protect the healthy and safety of its members.
Clubs can read all of the relevant information on their government website in preparation for reopening when the time is right.
South Australia
www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/recovery/create-a-covid-safe-plan
Western Australia
www.wa.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-05/COVID-19-Safety-Plan-Other-Business-Pack.pdf
Tasmania
Victoria
Victorian Community Sport and Recreation Organisations Guidance and Return to Play Plan
Queensland
www.covid19.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0026/127943/return-to-play-guide.pdf
ACT
www.sport.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/1547319/Return-to-sport_Framework_0.1.pdf
Northern Territory
coronavirus.nt.gov.au/community-advice/border-controls/prepare-a-covid-19-management-plan
New South Wales
www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-rules
Clubs are also reminded that if they do not follow Federal, State or Local laws they will not be covered by the ABF Insurance.
As distributed to all State and Territory organisations, TBIB Insurance has stated:
“Any advice given or intimated by the ABF that is contrary to Federal, State or Local laws will not be covered. Furthermore I have read the comprehensive discussion paper prepared by Dr Andrew Slutzkin. The recommendations made are very precise and effective.”
We are all missing our face to face bridge, but the health and safety of all players and officials has to be the number one priority. Please be patient and stay safe.
Allison Stralow
ABF President
31 May 2020
