THE Millicent swimming lake is currently being drained in a bid to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Wattle Range Council made the decision to close the lake on Monday and started draining the pool at 6pm that night.
As the emptying process takes a few days and water is still present, council urged the public to refrain from using the popular facility.
The annual swim season was originally scheduled to close on Tuesday, but was extended by council until April 26.
However, the COVID-19 virus has prompted another change-of-heart by council with its libraries, swimming pools and visitor information centres also closed.
The protocols are having a drastic impact on the Millicent Lakeside Cafe and caravan park proprietors Derek and Jo Sparkes.
Cafe patrons are not permitted to dine on site and the caravan park has experienced a sharp decline in bookings.
Mr Sparkes said he had heard from friends and relatives in the United Kingdom who were also battling the crippling effects the virus is having in the community.
“The COVID-19 virus is what it is.
“We did have many bookings for Easter from the geocache participants, but that event has been cancelled.
“Our cafe still has a full range of takeaway foods available.
“We have also introduced a free home delivery service for our customers who are aged or disabled pensioners.”
Regular customer Michael Gurney calls at the cafe every week for a takeaway food treat.
“We should all be supporting local businesses like the Millicent Lakeside Cafe at times like these,” Mr Gurney said.
“I like coming here due to the good food, ready service and tidy premises.
“We have to wait and see what will happen with COVID-19.
“I fear that some of the businesses which are being forced to close will not reopen.”
All going well, the Millicent swimming lake will reopen on November 1.
