The latest major Lismore event to fall victim to the Covid-19 crisis is the Italian-themed Piazza in the Park.

This has been held for the past four years, usually in late June, and in 2019 was organised in conjunction with a Lismore Italian Film Festival.

Festival organisers, Lismore Friendship Festival Committee, have decided to postpone the events and hope to make a decision in coming months about future plans.

Committee president, Dr Ros Derrett, said the festival has played a significant role in the region’s community cultural landscape, and intends to continue the celebration with vigour and creativity in the future.

“Last year 4500 people attended the Piazza in the Park, held in Spinks Park, and over 300 attended the inaugural Italian Film Festival at Lismore Cinemas,” Dr Derrett said.

“We are determined to offer locals and visitors the free family fun that has been characteristic of the outdoor festival, but only when safe to do so. 

“We will work with festival partners, public funders, our sponsors, business stakeholders, Council, volunteers, stallholders to ensure a full return to sustainable events.

“We acknowledge the city’s connection with two Italian sister cities and residents of Italian descent who have contributed much to the region’s rich cultural life.”

She urged the region’s residents to keep track of future plans and preparations through the festival’s social media platforms and website.