Council Announces Event Cancellations

THE Upper Hunter Shire Council has cancelled or postponed several major events for 2020 and said more cancellations are expected.

The events announced today include:

• March 18: The Inaugral Adams-Watts Social Justice Oration;
• March 20: The Murrurundi Uke Muster;
• March 24: Scone Saleyards Open Day;
• April 1-3: Kia-Ora Youth Music Camp and Concert, and
• June 5-7: Festival of the Fleeces.

Steve McDonald, general manager of Council said community and sporting organisations which have booked Council facilities and venues between now and the end of June should contact Council.

“We are asking organisations to review their risk assessment and response plans, and to report these to Council, informing us of their proposed course of action,” said Mr McDonald.

“Council will review these plans and determine if they are consistent with current guidance and Council’s position and liaise with organisers to determine the optimal outcome for the community,” Steve McDonald said. 

Cr Ron Campbell, chair of the Merriwa Festival of the Fleeces said the decision to cancel this year’s event was disappointing but unavoidable.

“The red socks will stay in the cupboard and the sheep will stay off the street this year, but Festival of the Fleeces will be back bigger and better with the 30th event now in 2021,” said Cr Campbell.

“Sponsors and advertisers who have already contributed will of course, be reimbursed,” he said. 

“Even without the festival there’s plenty to see and do around Merriwa and Goulburn River National Park, including rockpools, giant silo art, ancient indigenous art and rock formations. Come on up and experience our wide open spaces and country hospitality,” Cr Ron Campbell said.