COUNTRY shows around Australia have all been cancelled until at least the 14th of June, leaving the Parkes Show in a holding pattern ahead of the scheduled start date on the 31st of August.
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Strict measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 have meant the Show Society has not been able to meet and plan the event, but Chairman Tim O'Brien says they are just adopting a 'wait and see' approach given the turbulent nature of the virus restrictions.
The forced cancellation of country shows is a cruel blow for rural and regional communities who are still reeling from the effects of recent bushfires and drought. While it is clearly the correct decision whilst we suffer from our worst health crisis in living memory, the social and financial implications will be felt throughout the state.
Fortunately for the Parkes Show, there is still four months to wait for the situation to improve, and there are a host of shows after the winter break that are still a chance of getting off the ground in some capacity.
In even better news, the Showground has undergone vital safety updates; with the grandstand, stables and food buildings all receiving important repairs. The public works, that involved a building being demolished for a new Colourbond animal nursery shed however, will likely be postponed for the time being.
For now, the Parkes Show is going ahead as planned, but keep an eye out in the Champion-Post for any further updates on the situation as they develop.
