NSW has recorded three new cases of COVID-19 in the latest testing period, including a St Vincent’s Hospital nurse who worked while infectious.

The nurse worked a shift at the hospital in the Sydney suburb of Darlinghurst on October 7.

Health authorities said she only cared for one patient and had limited contact with colleagues.

“Contact tracing is continuing and the source of the infection is under investigation, although it is believed the infection occurred outside the hospital,” said Dr Michael Douglas, from NSW Health.

A second locally acquired case is linked to the nurse.

The third case is a crew member who acquired COVID-19 overseas and recently travelled on a coal ship into the Port of Newcastle from Brisbane.

He is being treated at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle.

The other crew members remain quarantined on board, where they are being monitored.

“It is important to note that there is no COVID-19 risk to the people at Newcastle,” Dr Douglas said.

Dr Douglas reiterated calls for people to come forward for testing.

“Testing numbers have dropped recently, which is a concern,” he said.

Despite this there were 15,439 tests done in the 24-hour reporting period to 8:00pm on Friday, up from 12,868 on the previous day.

Meanwhile, the NSW Government has announced boosted capacity for Spring Racing Carnival events over the coming weeks.

The decision is based on COVID-safe plans developed by the Australian Turf Club.

Up to 11,000 racegoers will be able to attend Royal Randwick for the Everest on October 17, and Melbourne Cup Day on November 3.

About 6,000 racegoers will be able to go to the Golden Eagle event on October 31 at Rosehill Gardens.

All racegoers will have to keep seated unless moving to buy food and drink or use the restrooms.

–ABC