THE Lions Club of Waikerie has made the “difficult decision” to axe its 2020 Christmas pageant in lieu of the difficulties COVID-19 restrictions would bring.
Pageant spokesperson Paul Croft said while the decision was not taken lightly or in haste, a number of factors left the club “very little choice”.
“Chiefly among (the factors) was the uncertainty and unpredictability of the COVID-19 outbreak and the ongoing variability of COVID-19 restrictions, particularly regarding social distancing and the responsibilities for crowd management,” he said.
“This also impacts on the availability and pre-booking of side-shows and rides, many of which come from interstate.
“We examined a number of options for a cut-down version of the pageant, but still came up against the same limitations when it came to the actual parade, which is the centrepiece of the pageant.
“Overall, there were just too many risks and complexities for us to proceed.”
While the 2020 pageant has become another victim of COVID-19, Mr Croft said the Lions Club is “already” planning the 2021 event.
“(Waikerie Lions members) are profoundly disappointed that it has come to this, particularly for the children of the community,” he said.
“We are feeling a bit like the Grinch who stole Christmas but are already looking to how we can make it bigger and better for next year.
“We wish everyone a merry Christmas nevertheless.”