THE 2020 Karuah Oyster and Timber Festival has been cancelled due to COVID19 concerns but will be returning in 2021.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

Committee member and festival volunteer Kelly Johnson explained, “The unknown of the legal implications, as well as the now short period of time to pull it together meant that it just wasn’t feasible to go ahead.”

“We want to ensure everyone is safe at the festival and social distancing isn’t something that is easily achieved in the festival space.”

“It was a heartbreaking decision for everyone.”

When asked what the festival means to the town Miss Johnson told News of The Area, “The festival is a much anticipated event for the town and brings a significant boost in tourists and income to businesses over the weekend that it is held.”

“It’s part of what makes Karuah special and the local businesses and residents will all feel the impact of not being able to proceed.”

“The local townsfolk and children of Karuah will miss the excitement of having the festival in their backyard, being able to show off their town to friends and families from all around.”

Despite the disappointment of not being able to proceed this year, the committee is feeling optimistic about the continuation of the much anticipated event next year.

Miss Johnson said, “We are brainstorming and pursuing new ideas in order to ensure we come back with a bang and make the next festival even better than the last.”

“We know that lots of people from all over the country look forward to the festival and we are passionate in using the extra time to plan a spectacular 2021 festival for everyone to enjoy.”

Miss Johnson explained how important the role of volunteers played in making the festival possible.

She said “The more people we have to get behind the festival the bigger it can be.”

By Brooke LYNCH