CANCELLED CAROLS A RUSHED DECISION

TONIGHT more than 50,000 people will cram into Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane to watch the State of Origin decider. It’s the first time an event of this size has been held anywhere in the world since the onslaught of COVID-19.

What’s remarkable is that just months ago the state had been in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic where all sporting events were played in front of empty stadiums.

Move 1100km north and Townsville too is recovering.

Despite having no community transmission for a much longer period, the city has endured the same lockdowns as the rest of the state.

Back in August we had 10,000 plus at the Jeff Horn, Tim Tszyu superfight at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Now, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has relaxed many COVID-19 social distancing rules, life is slowly getting back to normal.

This weekend, Townsville has approval for 5000 plus people to enter the Entertainment Centre to watch the PBR rodeo on Saturday night.

That’s why it’s confusing that the Townsville City Council has decided to abandon Carols by Candlelight for 2020.

Under the new rules outdoor events can have up to 1500 people attend but larger events can be held with a COVID Safe Plan.

Seems like a doable thing.

Granted the council has done positive work putting together a number of other events.

The livestream hosted by radio icon Pricey and the army band is great for all residents, particularly those that are house-bound or love to listen to the carols in their own time.

But the decision to cancel the carols seems a bit rushed.

Coronavirus is done and dusted in North Queensland and what could be better for community spirit than coming together at such a special time of year.

Also, it helps create employment for people in the entertainment and food industry, industries devastated during coronavirus.

As food truck owner Sally Vujica said, they need all they help they can get.

Thankfully the food truck operators are putting together a smaller event for Townsville.

It’s something we all should support.