Bunbury Beer and Cider Festival falls victim to ongoing event cancelations amid the regions COVID-19 outbreak

One of Bunbury’s most popular summer events has become another victim to cancellation as the region prepares for the incoming omicron outbreak. The Bunbury Beer and Cider Festival was “postoned” last week due to the “uncertain climate” amidst the most recent COVID-19 restrictions. The two-day event was set to be celebrated on February 19 and 20 on the Koombana Bay Foreshore, showcasing 50 local WA craft brews. It comes as another harsh blow to the region, following the cancellation of previous events including the Harvey Agricultural Show, the Dunsbrough Arts Festival and the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival. In a statement released on the event’s Facebook page, the organisers said there is a lack of certainty in the events industry across the state. “With the uncertain climate in Western Australia now, and the government offering no insurance in the event that restrictions come into place at the last minute, we have conducted our own risk assessment and have decided to sit this year out,” the statement read. “We’ve seen what other festivals have gone through recently, and it has sadly put a lack of confidence in the industry with a roll-on effect of postponements happening as we speak.” “Let’s hope that we soon return to normality and the Australian life we all know and love, not the segregated society we find ourselves in at present.” Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Migual said it’s unfortunate the event will not go ahead but understands the tough decision. “It would have been a hard decision for the organisers to make, and we acknowledge the challenges many are facing in our community at the moment,” he said. “As has been the entire way through the pandemic, you really can’t predict such things. There’s so many factors to consider when it comes to events, including the health and safety of the community, government directions, restrictions and community confidence.” “City staff will continue to work closely with event organisers in providing them with the latest COVID-19 event guidelines.” Mr Miguel said it is important for people to continue to support the small businesses in the community. “It’s also important to remember that events are businesses that create jobs and assist our economy,” he said. “While some events may not be occurring, I encourage our community to please support our local businesses at every opportunity.” The Bunbury Beer and Cider Festival is set to go ahead in 2023 on the February 18 and 19 weekend.