Greek tragedy – Coronavirus claims popular Brisbane festival

One of Brisbane’s biggest annual festivals, which attracts more than 60,000 visitors, has become the latest event to succumb to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, organisers have confirmed.

CORONAVIRUS has just taken down the Paniyiri Festival.

In a shock move organisers announced they were cancelling the Greek celebration to be held in May.

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Paniyiri is Australia’s longest-running Greek festival and the state’s largest cultural festival attracting more than 60,000 people to Musgrave Park each year.

It was a favourite for visiting celebrity chefs and TV stars.

Paniyiri Organising Committee Chair Mr Chris Kazonis said the decision was taken after consultation with the World Health Organisation, Queensland State Government and

STAR ATTRACTION: house Rules stars Katie and Alex at last year’s Paniyiri. Picture: Peter Wallis

Queensland Health and made for the safety of festival patrons, supporters, performers, sponsors, suppliers and organisers.

“The Paniyiri Organising Committee takes the health of our community very seriously and like all organisations right now, are doing all we can to minimise the risk of COVID-19,” he said.

“This is the first time the Paniyiri Greek Festival has been cancelled in 44 years, and we share in the disappointment that is being experienced.

“Rest assured that Paniyiri Greek Festival will be held next May.”

On the Paniyiri Facebook page last night, fans were understanding while some were calling for the committee to change its decision.

“Why would people get sick at your festival compared to anywhere else – and it’s so far away – May!” was one post.