Caravan Industry Victoria Confirms the Cancellation of the Melbourne Leisurefest for 2020.
As we all continue to operate in uncertain times, there are considerable restrictions with the Victorian Government announcing Stage 3 Restrictions for Regional Victoria and Stage 4 Restrictions for Metro Melbourne. Caravan Industry Victoria anticipates these restrictions and the directives from the Victorian Government are most likely not going to be lifted in time to conduct Melbourne Leisurefest at Sandown.
With this in mind at the last meeting Council Meeting (Association’s Board) held on 12 August 2020, the matter of conducting the 2020 Melbourne Leisurefest was discussed in detail. After considerable debate, the Association’s board felt they had no other option than to cancel Melbourne Leisurefest for 2020. This decision was based on the current COVID-19 environment and the lack of clear direction from the Victorian Government as to whether they would allow a show like Melbourne Leisurefest to operate.
Chief Executive Rob Lucas said “We know this is disappointing, however, we must comply with the current Victorian Government restrictions to keep members, exhibitors and consumers safe. The council was also mindful we were obliged to provide as much advance notice as possible to members and exhibitors”
The current restrictions have led to challenges across the industry, Lucas continued “Exhibitors, Members and Consumers can rest assured we are, and will continue to lobby the Victorian Government to ease restrictions for outdoor caravan and camping shows to allow the Association, Members and Exhibitors to operate in a COVID-19 safe manner”.
With limited and restricted international travel for consumers, it is anticipated the industry will see significant growth when restrictions ease, and ensuring that businesses in the industry can showcase and sell their products (with COVID safe plans in place) is important to the future of the industry.
