Festival organisers were disappointed to announce that guests cannot come together to celebrate the beginning of Bundanoon Winterfest next Saturday.
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The opening night has been cancelled for a second year in a row in light of overnight restrictions.
An update was made on the Bundanoon Winterfest site, their social media pages and to newsletter subscribers.
"Today we were faced with making the difficult decision to change the way we do Winterfest this year," it began.
"We were heartbroken to cancel the Winterfest opening night again, however safety of our community needs to be our priority."
Over 3000 of people were anticipated to gather at the Bundanoon Oval in rejoice of its return to the region with stallholders and entertainers in tow.
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"Everyone was looking forward to the event after a couple of years," said Winterfest convenor James Fulford-Talbot.
"Bundanoon loves to get together for a party, but the decision was completely necessary."
"We were really conscious that Winterfest affected small businesses with stalls, security, lighting, staging and artists.
"It was disappointing for them because it is an opportunity for income with them."
Mr Fulford-Talbot however did mention that some workshops could potentially go ahead but it is "too early to say".
Winterfest volunteers are currently contacting organisers to see what events could go ahead safely with some adjustments, and what needs to be cancelled.
"If the venues can cope with the new distancing rules, and the providers do not come from the affected areas, it could be possible," he added.
People who have reserved tickets for workshops during the Winterfest period will be directly contacted if there are any changes, and presented with options.
"Luckily much of the planning and hard work already undertaken for this year can be applied to next year," Mr Fulford-Talbot added.
"Winterfest is really grateful that providers and sponsors are being supportive and flexible with all the adjustments."
The online statement also mentioned that if anyone wanted to cancel a reservation, or was planning to visit from greater Sydney, that a refund is possible.
Mr Fulford-Talbot said people can keep up to date with changes via the Winterfest website, Facebook, Instagram or Trybooking.
People can also reach out to Mr Fulford-Talbot by emailing james.ft@live.com or President of the Bundanoon Community Association Andy Carnahan at president@bca.asn.au for any specific questions.
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