The Committee of the Geelong Chamber Music Society, Inc. has been following closely the official advice from State and Federal authorities regarding measures to mitigate the COVID-19 health crisis. We are mindful that – like us -- most of our members and subscribers are in the age group identified as vulnerable to this novel virus. Our decisions will follow guidance from public health officers, putting community health and welfare first and foremost.
Our concert program for 2020
The next concert in this year’s series, with Piers Lane and ANAM musicians, is still a long way ahead, on Friday, May 1. Under current guidelines for gatherings of fewer than 500 people, we are in the clear, but we recognise that circumstances may change. It is not yet time for a final decision regarding this attractive concert. We shall keep you posted.
Any alteration to our scheduled program will be notified to members and subscribers as far in advance as circumstances permit. We shall also notify members and subscribers in advance of any special arrangements at our venue that may be introduced to safeguard the health of performers and audience alike.
Our Annual General Meeting
The AGM scheduled for GCMS members only on Thursday, March 26 will proceed as advised. At present, the Committee is not anticipating any contentious matters on the agenda for this meeting. We strongly recommend that members who might ordinarily attend the AGM consider appointing a Proxy for this year’s meeting. Any wishing to do so will find a form on the website: it may be most convenient to nominate our Secretary, Irene McGinnigle, to act as your Proxy.
Because the AGM will be held in a private home, as is GCMS’s custom, any who do attend are asked to observe the following common-sense practices:
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When entering the room please cleanse your hands with hand sanitiser which will be available on entry.
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Remember, as always, to properly cleanse hands after going to the toilet.
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Remember not to greet each other by physical contact (handshakes, hugs etc.). It’s recommended to maintain a space of about one metre from others.
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Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or handkerchief when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow and then cleanse your hands.
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Stay at home if you feel even slightly unwell, especially if you have recently returned from overseas, or have been in close contact with someone who has.
This is an anxious time, globally as well as nationally. We assure all members and subscribers of our best wishes for calm minds and good health through the current crisis. Music lovers have one sure means of mental stimulus and emotional support at such times. We hope to be able to sustain our local program throughout coming months. We shall keep all members and subscribers informed as best we are able. With warmest good wishes to all.
Hugh Collins, President
For the GCMS Committee
15 March 2020