Wanda SLSC has today announced that their major annual fundraising event, the 2020 Tradies Sutherland to Surf had been cancelled due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The fun run style event, which attracts more than 6000 entrants has been planned and managed by Wanda SLSC's dedicated volunteer members for 49 years and was scheduled to be held on Sunday, July 19, 2020.
Wanda SLSC Board of Directors assessed all options for staging, cancelling or postponing the event. A thorough risk and logistical assessment was considered around the NSW Government laws limiting mass gatherings and social distancing, making the decision to cancel very clear.
"Whilst cancelling the event was our only option, the decision was still not easy. The Tradies Sutherland to Surf is a winter tradition in The Shire and Wanda's main source of fundraising." Wanda SLSC President Nathan Spinner said.
Wanda SLSC's main purpose is saving lives on the beach and this purpose transfers to our community events. Importantly all sponsors and key stakeholders are fully supportive of this decision. Whilst cancelling the event is disappointing for all involved, the health and well being of the community and our member volunteer workforce is always considered paramount.
"I know our Members and sponsors had put in a great deal of effort to make this year's event the best yet." Spinner added. "It's such a shame, as we all need something to look forward to at the moment, but Wanda SLSC is all about saving lives."
Fortunately, several months ago, as uncertainty grew around Covid-19, the volunteer S2S Committee decided to delay entries going on sale. So, with the cancellation, there is no requirement for entrant refunds.
Each year valuable funds raised by the S2S are used to attract, train and retain lifesavers to patrol Wanda Beach, keeping the community safe. Wanda SLSC will now seek other avenues to raise funds to support these activities.
Wanda SLSC and S2S major sponsor Tradies acknowledge the thousands of members of the community who train hard to prepare for the annual event. Whether they are trying for a PB, to run all the way, or to share a special time with family and friends. The Tradies Sutherland to Surf is a winter tradition in The Shire. It will be back better than ever next year.
