Heavy rainfall has forced the cancellation of the WA Day Festival planned to run this Sunday and Monday in Perth.
Despite promising the festival would “proceed rain or shine” this WA Day long weekend, a forecasted deluge and safety fears have prompted organisers Celebrate WA to call it off.
“Due to the heavy rainfall in the last 48 hours and the forecast of even heavier rains and storms on the way, festival organisers have made the difficult decision to cancel the festival in the interests of public safety,” a spokesperson said on Thursday.
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“This decision has been made in conjunction with festival organisers, Burswood Park, Optus Stadium and the State Government.
“We understand the disappointment this may cause and apologise for any inconvenience. The safety of our attendees, staff and performers is our top priority.”
The Optus Stadium precinct and Burswood Park were being prepared to host the two-day event.
Carnival rides, a silent disco, and free live music events starring Guy Sebastian, Eskimo Joe, Sneaky Sound System and Pond were among the attractions set to draw thousands of families.
A drone and fireworks spectacular was also planned for both nights.
Recent rains and the forecast of more over the coming days left organisers with few options but to call it off.
Perth is expecting showers from now until next week, with up to 20mm of rain forecast for Saturday, 45mm on Sunday and the chance of light showers on Monday.
Organisers previously said the festival would “proceed rain or shine”, with only “exceptionally severe weather conditions” threatening the event in 2024.
But pictures from site show what teams preparing the waterlogged host venues are already dealing with.
WA Day community celebrations will proceed in Albany, Carnarvon, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Fremantle and Northam and satellite events across June in Busselton, Dampier and Newman will also continue as planned, officials said.