Blackheath and District Horticultural Society has cancelled its annual flower show for the second year in a row due to COVID-19.
"It is a bitter blow for the organisers as preparations were well under way to present the show. The schedule was completed and ready to send to the printer; the hall was hired and the sponsors had been visited," said a society spokeswoman.
"For many years we have depended on our sponsors and without them we would not be able to present this highly anticipated community event. We are very grateful to the local businesses who provide the financial support to enable our society to cover the costs involved in presenting the show. Costs involve printing of the schedule, the fee to hire the hall and to provide prizes for winning competitors."
The flower and craft show has been held every year for the last 100 years except for the five years of World War II and the last two years because of COVID-19.
The Blackheath and District Horticultural Society has been an integral part of the Blackheath community for more than 100 years.
In 1920 a public meeting was convened for the purpose of forming a horticultural society. Last year, 2020, was the society's centenary year. It is the oldest continually functioning garden society in New South Wales.
"The highlight of our year in the Blackheath and District Horticultural Society occurs in the last weekend in September. The flower and craft show has been held every year for the last 100 years except for the five years of World War II and the last two years because of COVID - 19," said the spokeswoman.
"Over the years, small changes have been made to the show presentation and this year the executive-committee was planning to concentrate on horticultural aspects. For many years two shows were held each year, one in spring and one in autumn. Children were involved in the show from the very beginning and will continue to do so."
Due to be held on September 25 and 26 this year, organisers said the seriously escalating COVID- 19 situation gave them no option but to cancel.
"We do not wish to put our visitors, exhibitors and workers at the show at risk. We have no choice because government restrictions regarding COVID -19 prevent us from holding the show."
But the spokeswoman said the society was still "bitterly disappointed" by the outcome. "We look forward to seeing you all in September, 2022," she said.
