New Year's Eve celebrations in Forster Tuncurry will be a lot quieter in 2021 with Midcoast Council making the difficult decision to postponed the popular event due to ongoing risks associated with large gatherings and COVID-19.
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The event along the Manning River in Taree also has been put on hold.
The event traditionally attracts thousands of people to Wallis Lake's lake foreshore in both Tuncurry and Forster.
Mayor David West said the decision had been made in the interest of community safety.
"While the decision has been a tough one, as we do know 2020 has been a particularly difficult year for our community, it is the only decision we could make in the current circumstances," Cr West said.
While the decision has been a tough one, as we do know 2020 has been a particularly difficult year for our community, it is the only decision we could make in the current circumstances.
- David West
"Through liaison with key stakeholders, including NSW Police, we have determined that the event would be unable to be safely conducted without creating issues with the current social distancing requirements."
Cr West said that while there was the chance the requirements could change between now and New Year's Eve, a decision had to be made to provide certainty.
"We are working with event sponsors and fireworks suppliers to canvas opportunities for a community celebration during next year, when COVID restrictions are eased."
Cr West said MidCoast Council would continue to work with NSW Police to prioritise public safety.
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