I hope this message finds you well during these difficult times.
Hopefully, the recently published Roadmap for Regional and Metro (attached) provide some glimmer of hope regarding a return to play of some sort.
Along with all other peak sporting bodies, Table Tennis Victoria is seeking further clarification to confirm the Roadmap restrictions and how they will apply to a return to training and competition for grassroots table tennis.
We are expecting further clarity following a community sport update from Sport and Recreation Victoria scheduled for Monday 11 October 2021. These clarifications will guide updates to the Table Tennis Victoria Return to Play COVID Safe Plan, and we will provide updates to TTV clubs and members accordingly.
At a high level, a return to play for table tennis is subject to the following timelines and restrictions:
Regional
Currently, a cap of 10 people applies, subject to DQ of 4, with no reference to the vaccination status of participants.
As of 26 October, this will increase to a cap of 30 indoors, subject to DQ4 (i.e., minimum 120 sqm) – with a requirement that all individuals are fully vaccinated (i.e., double dose)
As of 5 November, this will increase to a cap of 150 indoors, subject to DQ4 (i.e., minimum 600 sqm) – with a requirement that all individuals are fully vaccinated (i.e., double dose)
Metro
Currently, there is no indoor play permitted.
As of 5 November, this will increase to a cap of 150 indoors, subject to DQ4 (i.e., minimum 600 sqm) – with a requirement that all individuals are fully vaccinated (i.e., double dose)
The dates referred to above are indicative only and are dependent upon State Government confirmation, subject to vaccination targets being achieved.
TTV understands that significant questions remain relating to matters including, but not limited to, the following:
Policing and proof of vaccine status
Treatment of under 16’s
Interpretation of ‘space’ vs. ‘venue’
To date during the pandemic, the details which underpin the high-level announcements contained within Roadmaps and other summary announcements are published within Restricted Activity Directions (RAD’s).
These are the legal documents which give force to the restrictions. Typically, these RAD’s are only published on midnight on the day that conditions are due to come into force. This means that all organizations usually require several days of clarifications from the State Government.
TTV genuinely understand and shares many of the concerns relating to the conditions referred to within the Roadmaps.
Please be assured that clarifications are being sought at the highest levels by TTV. We will make further announcements regarding all the matters discussed above as soon as possible
Finally, please note that TTV is a State Sporting Organization, with its Directors, Executive and Staff all duty bound to comply with government direction and laws.
Whilst recognizing that different views may exist within the community reading the restrictions, TTV will not engage in any debate with Affiliates or Individual Members relating to their efficacy or legality.
As always, TTV is more than happy to provide clarity and advice regarding their implementation once detailed information is made available to us, as outlined above.
Kind Regards,
Ritchie Hinton
Chief Executive Officer
ceo@tabletennisvic.org.au
M) 0405 401 600
