Festival loss major blow

The Pilbara events calendar continues to be struck by COVID-19 restrictions, with one of its main drawcards for tourism the latest to be cancelled North West Festival has been dropped for 2020 because of Federal Government bans on any gatherings, causing a major blow to the region’s economy, with more than 3000 people attending across two days last year. The major music event was last year headlined by Amy Shark, pictured, The Potbelleez, Baker Boy, and Redhook. The Spinifex Hill Spree was also called off for Hedland last week, which normally engages businesses from across the region for an all-ages carnival. Town of Port Hedland commissioner Fred Riebeling said the decision to cancel the two events was a necessary action taken by the Town. “As a local government, we have a responsibility to follow the directives of the State and Federal governments in stopping the spread of COVID-19 in regional WA,” he said. “We have cancelled North West Festival and Spinifex spree for 2020: although these events occur later in the year, all indications point to an extended period of national event cancellations and enforced social distancing throughout 2020. “I understand the decision will be disappointing to many people, however public health and safety must take precedence, we all have a responsibility to do all we can to limit social gatherings for the foreseeable future. “As much as this decision impacts event attendees, contractors and small business in our region will be hit particularly hard by the significant loss of income which results from event cancellations.” The two drawcards join a long list of other cancelled events, including the Karijini Experience which was due to be held next month and headlined by NSW indigenous artist Thelma Plum. Plum tested positive to the virus last month.