Dear Students, I write to you knowing that this is an incredibly tough time for all of you.
With further lockdown restrictions and so much uncertainty about what the coming months hold, it can be challenging to maintain a positive outlook. But please, above all else, look after your health and wellbeing. Get plenty of fresh air and stay connected 'virtually’ to friends and family.
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed (and it’s ok to feel that way!), please call our free 24-hour Student Wellbeing Support Line on 1300 036 149 or text 0488 884 164. Students can also access free counselling sessions with UOW Counsellors.
Having just returned from the US, I have seen first-hand what this virus can do if not taken seriously. COVID-19 is a formidable opponent, and we need to be vigilant. I ask that all our students take the utmost care and adhere to the current restrictions in place for Greater Sydney, including Wollongong and Shellharbour. Please stay home and only leave if you must. If you do need to leave home, please stay within 10km and follow the NSW health guidelines, and if you have even mild cold or flu like symptoms, get tested as soon as possible.
For all of our students, don’t forget to visit the Vaccination Information Centre and FAQ’s page we have set up. This site has been designed to help you better understand the COVID-19 vaccinations available to you and to help you make the right decision.
I want to assure you that the restrictions created by the health pandemic and their impact on UOW's operations continue to be kept under constant review, and safety and wellbeing is our highest priority. We will communicate with you about how classes will be delivered for the first week of the session, on 19 July.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the concern students have regarding the withdrawal of Campus Clinic from our Wollongong campus at the end of the month. Please rest assured that a replacement service and immediate options for impacted patients is being worked on at this moment, and I will have more news to share with you on this next week.
In the meantime, please stay safe, stay positive and stay connected to friends and family. We're all in this together. And we'll get through it together.
Trish