The Environment Protection Authority (EPA Victoria) has issued an air quality warning for Victoria as a result of bushfires in the region. 

The air quality is expected to worsen and may continue to pose health risks throughout the week. 

We are monitoring the air quality at our Yarra Leisure facilities and golf course every hour and will close areas if we have safety concerns. 

Are any Yarra Leisure facilities closed?

• Burnley Golf Course is now open. 
• The leisure centres are now open.

Thank you for your patience during this time. We are looking forward to seeing you back in our venues and back on track to achieving your fitness goals.

Why did you close the indoor areas?

The EPA measures the outdoor air quality every hour in various locations throughout Victoria. Although the EPA states exercise indoors is recommended, the air quality inside deteriorated as a result of worsening conditions outside.

Following the EPA's recommendations we had safety concerns for our staff being exposed to poor air quality and for patrons exercising in these conditions.

The safety of our staff and customers is our priority, and we appreciate your patience as we continue to navigate this unprecedented situation.

Where do I find the most up to date information?

For the most up to date information, view this news item or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. 

What do the air quality categories mean and how do I stay safe?

What does 'Good' mean?

It's a good day to be outside.

What does 'Medium' mean?

The air quality is okay, but it could change soon. It’s okay to be outside but watch for changes in air quality around you.

What does 'Poor' mean?

The air is probably dusty or smoky. Sensitive groups may experience symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.

How do I stay safe?

• If you are sensitive to air pollution, spend less time outside in the smoke or dust and follow your treatment plan. Reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity.
• If you are coughing or short of breath, avoid being outside in the smoke or dust.
• Close your windows and doors to keep smoke and dust out of your home.
• If you are worried about your symptoms, see your doctor or call Nurse On Call on 1300 606 024.
• Seek urgent medical help if anyone has trouble breathing or tightness in the chest. Call 000 for an ambulance.

What does 'Very poor' mean?

The air is probably very dusty or smoky. Everyone could be experiencing symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.

How do I stay safe?

• Listen to your local emergency radio station or visit Emergency Vic for advice.
• Avoid being outside in the smoke or dust. Reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity.
• If you are sensitive to air pollution, follow your treatment plan. Avoid physical activity outdoors.
• Close your windows and doors to keep smoke and dust out of your home.
• If you think the air in your home is uncomfortable, consider going to an air-conditioned building like a library or shopping centre for a break if it’s safe to do so.
• If you are worried about your symptoms, see your doctor or call Nurse On Call on 1300 606 024.
• Seek urgent medical help if anyone has trouble breathing or tightness in the chest. Call 000 for an ambulance.

What does 'Hazardous' mean?

The air is probably extremely dusty or smoky. Everyone could be experiencing symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.

How do I stay safe?

• Listen to your local emergency radio station or visit Emergency Vic for advice
• Stay indoors away from smoke and dust.
• If you are sensitive to air pollution, follow your treatment plan. If you can, remain indoors and keep physical activity levels as low as possible.
• Close your windows and doors to keep smoke and dust out of your home.
• If you think the air in your home is uncomfortable, consider going to an air-conditioned building like a library or shopping centre for a break if it’s safe to do so.
• If you are worried about your symptoms, see your doctor or call Nurse On Call on 1300 606 024.
• Seek urgent medical help if anyone has trouble breathing or tightness in the chest. Call 000 for an ambulance. 

How do I find out more information?

For more information on these conditions, how it may impact you and how to stay safe, visit the EPA website or Emergency Victoria for advice.

There is also information about health concerns related to the Victorian bushfires available.

This page was updated at 5pm, Wednesday 15 January 2020.