On the eve of Tasmania’s borders reopening to safe states Labor has welcomed the possible return of more large scale events to the state.
But while this will be great news for some venues and event organisers, Labor Leader Rebecca White said for others it will be devastating.
“Because this decision has come so late in the year many of the state’s most iconic summer festivals and events have already been forced to cancel,” Ms White said.
“Premier Peter Gutwein has admitted the Government did not begin developing the events framework until around three weeks ago, despite a long list of festival cancellations over the past few months.
“Peter Gutwein must have been aware of the lead time required for music festivals, cultural events and major food and wine extravaganzas that Tasmania has become so famous for.
“It’s going to be a very different summer this year without the iconic festivals and events Tasmanians have become so familiar with and proud of.
“There are many committees who have already cancelled events because they had no certainty from government about whether they would be able to proceed.
“This has already had an impact on many small businesses and jobs.
“On the plus side, it’s possible that sporting events such as the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, the Hobart, Launceston and Devonport Cups, and the Big Bash will all be able to go ahead.”
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
