New location for drive-through COVID-19 testing in Bathurst

The drive-through testing clinic can now be found at the former Clancy Motors site, 252 Howick Street.

People can present for testing between 8am and 4pm daily.

READ ALSO: NSW COVID case number drops again as first doses pass 92 per cent

Surveillance testing has been implemented in Bathurst, meaning people only need to isolate if they have symptoms, someone in their household has symptoms, and or they are a close contact of a confirmed case.

A spokesperson for the Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) said the decision to move the clinic was due to the upcoming Supercars events at Mount Panorama.

Being in the central business district, the new site in Howick Street is ideal for the testing clinic.

"The more-central location makes the new COVID-19 testing facility more accessible to the community and particularly those who rely on public transport, and has ample parking facilities," the spokesperson said.

"It's a large space which means we can maintain the same level of safety and care for people being tested, staff and the wider community and the space also has a number of potential expansion points, should that be necessary."

Now that the state is opening up from lockdown, high testing rates are crucial in preventing significant spread of the virus.

The health district wants to see testing rates increase in Bathurst.

"Testing numbers at Bathurst have been steady over the past week, but they are still lower than we'd like to see," the spokesperson said.

"We'd like to see higher testing numbers across the entire district, so we encourage everyone to come forward if they have even the mildest of symptoms, and do so immediately if you have been identified as a close or casual contact.

"It's still hay fever season too, which shares very similar symptoms to COVID-19. So don't brush your symptoms off as just hay fever, get a test as a priority to make sure."

Testing at the drive-through clinic is generally "incredibly fast and convenient", but the spokesperson advised people to set aside a little bit of time in case there is a queue when they arrive.

People can also be tested at Bathurst Hospital or by appointment at the Bathurst Respiratory Clinic.

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