The Twin Rivers Fishing Classic that was due to be staged in Port Stephens this weekend has become the latest sport and recreation casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Junction Inn Fishing Club president Peter Hughes said it was unfortunate but necessary to postpone the event, which was due to be held Friday through to Sunday, "for now" due to the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation.
"We don't know what government measures will be in place at the end of the week. Things are changing that quickly," he said.
"We had some long discussions [on Tuesday] and decided the best course of action is to postpone the classic for now.
"We're obviously disappointed but we don't feel socially responsible continuing the event when the government is saying to avoid unnecessary public gatherings."
On Sunday the NSW government banned mass gatherings of over 500 people and advised that non-essential organised gatherings should be limited in response to the rapidly escalating spread of the coronavirus. On Tuesday, cabinet ministers were meeting to discus whether to ban groups of more than 100 people in enclosed areas.
The measures have impacted on sport across the Port. Nelson Bay and Raymond Terrace junior rugby league clubs and Nelson Bay junior rugby union have suspended training and trial games.
Nelson Bay Football Club has suspended training, trials and clinics for four weeks, Port Stephens Netball Association has suspended its activities until the end of April and the Nelson Bay hockey season has been delayed until May 2.
The Port Stephens Trailer Boat Fishing Tournament scheduled for April 3, 4 and 5 has also been postponed while Sail Port Stephens, scheduled for April 27-May 3, has been cancelled.
The 'Big D' charity rugby league 9's day, which had been organised to take place at Raymond Terrace's Lakeside sporting fields on March 28, has been postponed with organisers hoping to re-schedule at a later date.
Port Stephens Outrigger Canoe Club has also cancelled its annual regatta. Racing was scheduled to be staged out of Shoal Bay on March 28-29.
Up until Tuesday morning the fishing classic, an all ages fishing competition covering the Hunter and Williams rivers, was due to run as scheduled.
Hughes said after talking with other club members and sponsors the Junction Inn Hotel it was decided that the best course of action was to not proceed with the competition this weekend.
"I will be calling everyone who had already registered. They will be fully refunded," he said.
Anyone wishing to get in contact with Hughes can do so on 0432 488 447.
Have you had to cancel your event, sport or recreation activity? Let us know so we can compile a comprehensive list to share across the community. Email the Examiner at portstephens@austcommunitymedia.com.au or send us a message via the Port Stephens Examiner Facebook page.