A DECISION on whether the 2020 NF McDonnell and Sons Mount Gambier Christmas Parade will go ahead is likely to be made at tonight’s City Council monthly meeting.
A council staff report has foreshadowed the postponement of the 2020 event based off a recommendation from the Mount Gambier Christmas Parade Advisory Group.
The uncertainty created by COVID-19 and the public health implications have weighed heavily on the group as it has tried to plan and prepare for the event.
In a report included in tonight’s agenda, council chief executive Andrew Meddle said a decision was now timely to allow the community to prepare for a postponement.
“Such a postponement is, in reality, a cancellation of the 2020 event, given the Christmas parade is an annual event,” he said.
“As the council and volunteer team are recommending postponement and this event relies unequivocally on them, it is not possible to run this event without their wholehearted support.”
However, council will seek a solution to ensure the region’s young people do not feel Christmas “has been cancelled” with provision for some form of visit to the city by Father Christmas.
The report suggests this could include the float completing an extended route around the city, which would allow members of the community to spread out and adhere to COVID-19 restrictions.
“Work is under way to consider the strengthening required for a significant ride around town (over drains, etc.) which are not currently a factor in the current route,” Mr Meddle said.
“Separately, the creative team within the council will also be turning their minds to how to provide some reassurance in this space.”
Council will also consider providing the balance of the Christmas parade sponsorship to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
“This year there is likely to be an increased take up of support from appeal members and conversely a downturn in donations given the financial stress faced by many in our community,” Mr Meddle said.
