Taking public safety into account, the Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism has decided to cancel the Redcliffe Festival of Sails 2020, which was scheduled this Good Friday, 10 April 2020 at Suttons Beach.
Through a Facebook post, Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism announced that this is in line with Queensland Health and Australian Department of Health’s advice that events and large gatherings of more than 500 people have to be cancelled or postponed.
“We, just like you, are extremely disappointed and saddened by the decision to cancel this much-loved community celebration, however the safety and welfare of festival guests are our critical priority and the decision was made with this at the forefront,” the organisation noted.
This year’s event was designed to be filled with Easter-themed activities like the Easter egg hunt, the Egg & Spoon race held on the sand, and the visit of the sky-diving Easter Bunny. Other activities planned for this year include face painting, amusement rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, live music, as well as sand sculpture and workshop.
The 72nd Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, the highlight of the festival, was also cancelled. It was announced through a press release by Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, the organising authority for the race. Karen Somerville, Race Director of Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, said this is on account of the escalating nature of advisories and measures necessary to contain the pandemic in Australia.
“QCYC looks forward to a steady return to normal life for the whole community over the months ahead and ultimately, we can all look forward to seeing the 2021 race return with the usual health, spirit of competitiveness and passion and public spectacle which it generates,” Ms Somerville said.
For updates and important announcements, visit Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism’s Facebook page.
Redcliffe Festival of Sails is presented by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT) and supported by Moreton Bay Regional Council.
