Mayor Carmelo Pesce has warned Cronulla beaches could be closed following "unpleasant interactions" between council public safety officers and members of the public over social distancing regulations.
The council has already closed the section of the Esplanade at the southern end of Cronulla beach, which is a natural gathering place, "as a precautionary measure".
Cr Pesce issued "a firm reminder" to shire residents about their responsibility to observe social distancing measures to help prevent the spread of COVD-19.
He said council public safety officers had "encountered unpleasant interactions with members of the public while assisting police in educating community members about social distancing requirements after being observed doing the wrong thing outdoors".
Cr Pesce said any request from an enforcement officer to move on was for the safety of the person being given the direction and that of other members of the community.
"If you can't follow simple directions with respect, then we will be forced to close areas like our beaches," he said. "Remember that these requirements are now law, and heavy police fines and jail time can apply."
Cr Pesce said the council was "doing everything we can to support our community in adapting to the requirements at this challenging time".
"While the NSW Government's Public Health Order states it is still permissible for people to leave their homes for essential purposes such as exercise, it is vital that people adhere to all other government imposed restrictions around social distancing and limiting public outdoor gatherings.
"We want people to still be able to access our beaches and the outdoors to maintain good physical and mental wellbeing, but they must do so responsibly.
"These restrictions are there for a reason - they are all about keeping you, your family, friends and the wider community safe from the deadly threat of coronavirus, so it is vital that people observe these restrictions at all times.
"For all of us here in the Sutherland Shire, enjoying the outdoors is a way of life, and both council staff and local police have taken a considered approach in how we can support people to still access our public spaces in a respectful and sensible fashion, whilst adhering to the critical restrictions to keep us all safe."
Cr Pesce said, while it was encouraging that most members of the community were happy to follow directions from public safety officers, lifeguards and police.
"Disgraceful behaviour" seen in other parts of Sydney would not be be tolerated in the shire, he said.
Police have responsibility for enforcing Public Health Orders. Breaches can be reported to: crimestoppers.com.au or 1800 333 000
