While Quirindi's annual spring show has been cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions, it's not all bad news for locals as the Royal Theatre kicks back into gear.
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Quirindi Show Society Committee made the tough announcement on Wednesday, with president Luke Gunning naming distancing restrictions the main issue.
"Taking into consideration the welfare of all involved in organising, participating in, and attending the show, combined with all the extra measures required, has made it unfeasible this year," Mr Gunning said.
He said it was especially difficult after having to cancel the show two years ago.
"This is the second time ... we have had to cancel with the drought as well in 2018 and we know how important the show is to the local community," he said.
"Hopefully we will be back next year with a great show."
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But locals won't completely be without entertainment, with the Royal Theatre to get back into hosting a variety of events.
"The reopening, from Tuesday, July 21, is subject to a COVID-19 Safety Plan that allows just over 60 patrons in the auditorium abiding by the 4 square metre requirement. For all hiring purposes organisers must also have their own COVID-19 Safety Plan," Liverpool Plains Shire mayor Andrew Hope said.
"If everyone respects COVID-19 safety requirements in relation to all gatherings of larger numbers, we can again enjoy many of the things that enrich our community.
"Hygienic practices, physical distancing, staying at home if you're sick and continued vigilance remain of paramount importance if we want to maintain eased restrictions."
Cr Hope said it was planned that movies would be screened at the Royal Pictures by the end of the month.
"Pencilled in for a little later in the year and when their COVID-19 Safety Plans are in place we can look forward to an interactive production for ages three to 11, Snow White and Seven Cool Dudes, Hangi In the Country IV, and the annual Sunflower Art + Craft Festival. More details on these events will be announced as dates draw nearer," he said.
"Events provide opportunity for economic flow on to local businesses that provide services and jobs as visitors spend time in town. This in turn underpins the basis of the rural lifestyle we enjoy in the shire."
Individuals, organisations or promoters who have an event to stage can contact the LPSC events team for help by emailing events@lpsc.nsw.gov.au or calling 6746 1755.
The Royal Theatre's website provides updates on movies, events and venue hire and a hire request form can also be downloaded at https://www.royaltheatrequirindi.com/
