Bathurst Regional Council is yet to decide on the fate of larger community events scheduled for the near future in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Within the next two months, council is set to co-host large scale events such as the Sustainable Living Expo [March 28], Bathurst 6 Hour [April 10 to 12] and the annual NRL game at Carrington Park [May 10].
But with the federal government's decision to suspend all non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people in a bid to control the COVID-19 outbreak, the future of these events is now uncertain.
However, council's general manager David Sherley said smaller events hosted by council will go ahead as planned until further notice.
"Small community events such as Harmony Day, Chase the Rainbow, Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail, and the Autumn Colours program are at this stage likely to proceed," Mr Sherley said.
"Decisions are yet to be made on events that are expected to attract larger crowds, such as the Sustainable Living Expo, Bathurst 6 Hour and NRL."
On Monday, Harmony Day co-hosts The Neighbourhood Centre announced a series of changes to the event, scheduled for this Saturday.
The changes will prevent two multicultural food stalls from going ahead, as well as the provision of cupcakes and henna body art.
All other Harmony Day activities are set to go ahead.
Mr Sherley said council is closely monitoring further updates on the developing COVID-19 situation show they affect future events.
"Council is following advice on COVID-19 from the state and federal health departments," he said.
"As most of the community events attract less than 500 people, it is envisioned that they will proceed unless advised otherwise."
Mr Sherley has called for everyone who intends to attend upcoming community events to follow appropriate hygiene practices outlined by the state and federal health departments, such as hand washing and using a tissue or flexed elbow to shield the nose and mouth while coughing.
"If you are unwell, or are experiencing flu like symptoms, please re-consider attending the event," he said.
"Council will aim to provide hand washing and hand sanitising facilities at events."
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