The City of Victor Harbor has reported that the 2020 Schoolies Festival has been cancelled.

Its statement says the decision will be disappointing for the class of 2020 who have had to deal with extra challenges as a result COVID-19 while undertaking their final year of school. 

“While our year 12s deserve recognition for their hard work, this year is like no other and as a community we need to do everything we can to keep COVID safe. 

“SA Police are currently finalising directives to support the cancellation. 

Further information and updates will be posted the council website. 

Mayor Moira Jenkins posted the announcement to Facebook.

“Chief Executive Officer Victoria MacKirdy and I have spent many hours working alongside SA Health and, SA Police discussing how a major event such as Schoolies can be undertaken at this time. 

“Our primary aim throughout all of these conversations has been the safety of the Victor Harbor Community, and we have fed back all of your concerns and issues raised with us, back to SAPOL and SA Health. 

“I am happy to now be able inform you that there will not be a Schoolies Festival this year in Victor Harbor. 

“This decision is based on the fact that there is no capacity to manage large crowds in a COVID safe way.

“We are asking school leavers not to come to Victor Harbor for any Schoolies events, and there will be a dry zone imposed all over Victor Harbor during this time. 

“Most young people I have spoken to are responsible and while disappointed, agree with this decision. Our main priority is the wellbeing and health of the Victor Harbor community, many who are older and who are in an ‘at risk category’.”