Moreton Bay EKKA holiday postponed

Published 3:10pm 4 August 2021

The Moreton Bay Region’s public holiday for the EKKA has been rescheduled due to the current COVID-19 lockdown across 11 of the state’s local government areas.

Councillors today unanimously voted to reschedule the region’s upcoming show public holiday, which was slated for Monday, August 9.

Mayor Peter Flannery says it is essential to try to provide businesses with some certainty at this uncertain time, so they can continue their operations.

Benefit to business

“This is absolutely critical after the cancellation of Moreton Bay Food + Wine Festival, so I want to assure local businesses that they’ll enjoy the benefit of an alternative long weekend later this year and they won’t need to pay public holiday wages during a lockdown when no one is allowed outside their homes,” he says.

“With 19 new Covid cases today, there’s a chance that restrictions could remain for another week and we may not have any clarity around that until Sunday, August 8, which is just too close to the current public holiday for my liking.

“Moving the holiday will mean residents and businesses can really make the most of a long weekend when lockdown is lifted, and we’ll be looking at a ‘stay and play’ campaign to encourage locals to celebrate the event in our region.”

Mayor Flannery says the new date is yet to be determined with the State Government, but Council will be advocating for another long weekend of celebrations in Moreton Bay Region, possibly around an event such as Redcliffe KiteFest.

Vigilance crucial

“We must continue to be vigilant if we’re to stop an outbreak across Queensland, so please stay home unless you need to go out for an essential reason, and get tested if you’re showing any signs of symptoms.

“There are testing clinics across our region, including a new facility that opened today in Caboolture at the Queensland State Equestrian Centre.”

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