The 2020 Jacaranda Festival may be postponed, but the famous trees will still bloom as strongly as Ella Sear’s determination to return.
Although the Grafton teenager admits she is upset the popular event can’t go ahead this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, she understands the health and safety of the community come first and she is already focusing on campaigning for the crown in 2021.
“I will definitely be back,” she said.
“I was looking forward to all the fundraising events this year and becoming more involved with the local community.
“It’s disappointing that the festival can’t happen, but its important that people stay home, stay safe and do the right thing to help stop the virus from spreading.”
In a media release, Jacaranda Festival manager Mark Blackadder said the decision to postpone the 2020 Jacaranda Festival was not taken lightly. Mr Blackadder said the candidates hard work and enthusiasm has already paid off with combined fundraising efforts raising almost $15,000.
“It is a fantastic outcome considering everything changed in March,” he said.
“Due to the postponement of the festival until next year, we won’t be focusing on fundraising as much, however all eight queen and junior queen candidates have indicated they’d like to participate in 2021.”
He added the Grafton Jacaranda Festival Committee are looking forward to welcoming everyone to a bigger and better event next year.
“The Jacaranda Festival is a great community event and it brings everyone together,” Miss Sear said.
“I think it will definitely be bigger and better next year.”
Miss Sear was sponsored by her employer Toast Espresso in her 2020 candidacy. She is proud to say the local business will be getting behind her again in 2021.
“They have been very supportive and I’m very thankful to them,” she said.
Miss Sear is encouraging more Clarence Valley residents to get involved with the Jacaranda Festival when it returns. She is also encouraging more local woman to nominate for 2021 Jacaranda Queen.
“There’s more time to think about nominating as well,” she added.
For more news and updates about the Grafton Jacaranda Festival, visit www.jacarandafestival.com