Australia’s Federal Government guidelines on measures tackling the coronavirus outbreak was updated on Friday, announcing a level three travel advice put in place urging Australians to reconsider any foreign travel and advising all “non-essential, organised gatherings” of 500 people or more be cancelled from Monday.
And while Prime Minister Scott Morrison reassured the public “there is every reason[…]to carry on with their usual business”, unfolding developments paint a different picture.
The Greek Australian community is by no means immune to this. Here is a snapshot of what has changed in recent days.
25th March commemoration events cancelled
Organising Committees for the Greek National Day in Melbourne and Sydney have officially announced the cancellation of the parades that were scheduled to take place on Sunday 22 March and Sunday 29 March respectively.
A planned visit by Kostas Vlasis, the Minister for Greeks Living Abroad was also confirmed it will not proceed due to the coronavirus.
Furthermore, His Eminence Archbishop Makarios has communicated with the Archiepiscopal Viscars in Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane, giving them guidelines for the proceedings for the 25th of March commemoration events in line with prioritising community safety. It is expected that cancellation of events in these cities will also be officially announced shortly.
READ ALSO: Coronavirus changes life as as know it: PM Scott Morrison addresses the nation
Victoria Youth Conference postponed
An 11th hour cancellation applied for the Youth Conference which was to be held on Saturday 14 March at St. John’s College, Preston, in Melbourne under the auspices of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
According to the press release, the conference “will be rescheduled for the future until such time as this health concern has been resolved”.
Public shows’ cancellations, community gatherings suspended
Explaining the government advice against mass gatherings, Chief medical officer Professor Brendan Murphy said:
“We have seen increases in numbers every day, and we will feel there will be such a point over coming weeks that it is time to take precautionary advanced measures to limit those large events where the incidents of transmission can be supported.”
The wave of cancellations has seen major international events cancelled, including the Formula One Grand Prix.
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is also falling under this cohort and as a result the Greek language shows of Σταντ Απ Κόμεντι ιν Γκρικ with artists Giorgos Xatzipavlou and Xrysa Katsarini will also not go ahead.
“Our primary concern is the health and welfare of our artists and participants, staff and audiences. Cancelling the Festival is heartbreaking but the only decision possible to support the community’s efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). Ticketholders will be notified shortly regarding refunds. We’re devastated by the news, thank everyone for their understanding and support and look forward to sharing a laugh with you again soon,” said the announcement.
And while the advice on “non-essential” events refers to those attracting more than 500 people, organisers and individuals have been quick to adopt the precautionary measure with even smaller crowds.
Director of Manasis Dance School Dimosthenis Manasis said in a recent announcement about suspension of all operations, including lessons, performances and activities.
“With only 2 weeks left of this term, as well as the Term 1 holiday break and additional week of Greek Orthodox Holy Week and Easter, hopefully, our proactive approach to this situation will assist in suppressing the further spread of COVID-19.”
Personal plans changed, life events cancelled
Have you seen your future plans and commitments altered in light of new developments? One thing is for sure, you’re not the only one.People are finding it increasingly hard to plan ahead, and when it comes to already scheduled travel in the upcoming months many have come in terms with the fact it’s not going to happen. Even if it means putting on hold a life event like a wedding for example.
If things feel overwhelming, at least you know you’re not alone. Do you want to share your story? Send us an email at editor@neoskosmos.com.au