Council cancels outdoor events in response to COVID-19 outbreak

Blacktown City Council will cancel a number of major events scheduled for January and February
in response to the latest COVID-19 outbreak.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “In the interests of the community’s health and
wellbeing, Council has made the difficult decision to cancel a number of major outdoor events,
including the Australia Day Concert and Fireworks and Lunar New Year celebrations.
“Council has a duty of care to the community and our staff to minimise the spread of infection amid
the current surge in COVID-19 cases.
“It is essential we reduce the pressure on our frontline emergency services who would have
normally been required to attend these events.
“We understand that many people will be disappointed by this decision, however, we believe this is
the most sensible approach to keep our City safe.”
Council will cancel Movies on the Lawn at Riverstone on Saturday, 15 January.
The Australia Day Concert and Fireworks at the Rooty Hill will no longer go ahead, as well as
Council’s Lunar New Year celebrations planned for Nurragingy Reserve on Saturday, 5 February.
The Sydney Symphony in the Park event planned for Saturday, 12 February, will no longer
proceed, with all ticket holders to receive a refund.
Please note, the Wake Up with the Wildlife breakfast scheduled at Featherdale Wildlife Park on
Australia Day will still proceed as planned.
“Council does not make this decision lightly, but due to the high transmission rates of COVID-19 in
NSW, it is important we do all we can to limit any further spread of the virus at this time,” Mayor
Bleasdale said.
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“This decision has been made based on concerns among the community about large gatherings,
extended wait times on Ambulance Services should an incident occur, volunteer shortages within
St John Ambulance as well as staff shortages at NSW Police and Council.
“I thank the community for their understanding at this challenging time, but together, we will work
through this.”
For further details on Council events, visit the website: https://www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Eventsand-activities
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