As we know a great deal of events in 2020 have either been cancelled or postponed to later in the year in the hope that restrictions will ease so they can go ahead.

Well unfortunately, the Lismore & Villages Relay For Life Committee and Cancer Council have made the decision that the community won’t be able to Relay side by side in 2020.

The Committee and Cancer Council releasing this statement " We have the health and safety of the community as the top priority and in light of the developing situation around Coronavirus (COVID-19), the decision was made that the 2020 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life will not go ahead in its current form."

"Though we won’t be holding a physical event we still want to take the opportunity to remember, celebrate and fight back as a community. Rest assured the committee are creating a plan to highlight and proudly recognise the 2020 Lismore and Villages Relay For Life and all involved."

"We would also like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the amazing fundraising achievements of our community. As you know, Relay For Life is a wonderful opportunity for individuals, families and businesses to reach out to those in our community living with cancer."

"Your efforts thus far have well exceeded our expectations and for that we are truly thankful. Every effort contributed, every cent raised or donated helps the cause in so many different ways."

"Just one example of how your tireless fundraising efforts helped in our community is our Lismore and Ballina Transport to Treatment vehicles. Our transport service offers local patients free transport to their treatment appointments, in the last financial year our local vehicles have travelled over 660 trips and almost 30,000kms. Our Transport to Treatment is invaluable and it’s thanks to your support we are able to offer the service."

Cancer Council Media contact Hannah Nairne said "we are working on a series of videos that showcase fundraising efforts, cancer carers, cancer survivors and support staff that recognise and celebrate the achievements of the community. There is still a lot that needs to be finalised, details of which will be shared in the next two weeks."

While this news is understandable but disappointing for many, it does show how businesses and organisations need to think creatively during one of the strangest years in our lives.