If they haven't already done so, the people of Bourke and its surrounding communities are being urged to come forward for COVID-19 testing today, Sunday 27 June, to protect themselves and their loved ones.

A drive-through and walk-up clinic was established at Davidson Oval, Mertin Street, Bourke and tested 90 people on Friday with more residents and travellers turning out on Saturday. The clinic will operate from 9am to 4pm on Sunday 27 June.

Anyone who has recently travelled from Sydney to Bourke is asked to get tested, even without symptoms, after fragments of the virus that causes COVID-19 were detected at the Bourke sewage treatment plant for the first time on Thursday night.

Western NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Scott McLachlan said it was a timely reminder that COVID-19 still poses a serious risk.

“High testing rates help us to detect any cases of COVID-19 as early as possible, which is key to keeping our communities safe," Mr McLachlan said.

“We truly appreciate the community coming forward like this, and for their patience. Many people expressed their thanks to our staff for the work they’re doing, which is fantastic.”

There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the WNSWLHD.

“If anyone in the District has even the mildest of cold-like symptoms, please get tested, and we’re urging those in Bourke and surrounding communities to get tested even without symptoms following the detection of virus fragments in the local sewage treatment plant. All testing locations in NSW are listed at www.nsw.gov.au,” Mr McLachlan said.

Symptoms associated with COVID-19 include fever, cough, breathing difficulties, sore throat, loss of smell or taste, runny nose, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

For more information on COVID-19 vaccination go to www.healthdirect.gov.au

If you live in, or have recently visited the Bourke area and have cold-like symptoms, please get tested. If you are in Bourke and have visited Sydney recently, please get tested even without symptoms.

Testing is free and no appointment is required. You must isolate until you receive a negative test result.

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