Local governments in the Peel region have made a few slight changes around town after COVID-19 restrictions were "cautiously relaxed" across Western Australia this week.
However, their message to tourists is still united and clear - visitors are not welcome, yet.
Two-person limits on non-work activities have been increased to 10 throughout the state, provided people adhere to social distancing and good hygiene.
Outdoor activities such as picnics, boating, hiking and exercise have been given the green light for small groups.
National parks, reserves and state forests have also been reopened for camping with bookings available for up to two weeks at a time.
As a result, the Shire of Murray has fired up public barbeques and reconnected water fountains.
In the City of Mandurah, those amenities are still not in operation but the council has switched on the floodlights at some parks to allow for exercise in the evenings.
However, that is about all that has changed following the announcement.
Local parks, playgrounds and community spaces remain closed and travel bans also remain in place for now - news that has been welcomed by leaders in the Peel region.
"We are still facing a very real threat," Shire of Murray chief executive Dean Unsworth said.
"While restrictions have been lifted slightly, it is still important for Murray community members to remain vigilant and to continue practising good hygiene as well as social distancing including when catching up with friends and family members.
"We will not be actively promoting tourism to our district, until such time as our face-to-face visitor servicing recommences, to reduce the likelihood of outbreaks in our communities."
We are still facing a very real threat.
- Shire of Murray chief executive Dean Unsworth
Mr Unsworth said the progress being made to slow the spread of COVID-19 had been "encouraging".
"Murray, at the time of response, has recorded less than five confirmed cases, which has been unwavering since the release of the heat map some weeks ago," he said.
"The Shire of Murray continues to monitor the situation and adapt its response in line with Australian and state government advice."
Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams agreed, urging local Mandurah residents to "remain vigilant".
"The fact that we are now at a point where government is able to gradually ease off restrictions is largely thanks to the amazing efforts of communities like ours doing the right thing to protect one another," he said.
"But we need to do this cautiously ... and keep following the recommendations of our health experts."
"It's great that people can now see and reconnect with their families and friends while still adhering to social distancing rules, but given that we've come so far and have done such a great job, the worst thing we can now do is to become complacent."
Cr Williams added that the City would manage the reinstatement of local parks and attractions in line with current guidelines and health advice.
"We are continuing to work with local leaders, community groups and support and relief agencies to make sure those vulnerable people in our community are recognised and supported through this difficult time.
"Of course the full impact of this pandemic will be felt well after restrictions are lifted.
"Council is working with our local economic development agencies and businesses to make sure Mandurah is in the best place possible for a strong and lasting restart."
City of Mandurah:
- Some floodlights at parks have been switched back on to allow for exercise in the evenings.
- Playgrounds, barbeques, drink fountains, skate parks, outdoor gym equipment and some toilets remain closed
- There are currently no further planned closures of Tims Thicket and White Hills vehicle access
- Rangers and local Police continue to monitor social distancing and inappropriate social gatherings
Shire of Murray:
- Public barbeques and water fountains have been switched back on
- Playgrounds, skate parks, the Dwellingup Pump Track and outdoor exercise equipment remain closed
- Community buildings including but not limited to community halls, Murray Aquatic and Leisure Centre and Murray Library, however online library services continue
- The Pinjarra 24 Hour Free Stay Area, Edenvale Homestead and Tea Rooms and the Court House all remain closed
Herron Point campgrounds will reopen from May 2 however, Mr Unsworth encouraged visitors to act responsibly.
"Campers must adhere to current social distancing and gathering requirements and, if not observed, a review on the number of maximum sites will be undertaken," he said.
"Each individual campsite permits a maximum of two adults and four children. Pre-bookings will not be accepted, with camping only available on a first come, first served basis."
