The 2020 Australian Bulk Handling Expo (BULK2020) has been delayed following a recent announcement from Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews declaring a state of emergency, cancelling all mass gatherings of more than 500 people.
To mitigate the risks of the COVID-19 virus, the Victorian Government announced that a state of emergency would begin on Monday, 16 March at midday, and would remain in effect for the next four weeks.
Under a State of Emergency, Authorised Officers at the direction of the Chief Health Officer, can act to eliminate or reduce a serious risk to public health by detaining people, restricting movement, preventing entry to premises or any other direction considered reasonable to protect public health.
A number of events, such as the Melbourne Comedy Festival and Melbourne Food and Wine Festival have already been postponed.
As part of the response to slow the virus and to keep attendees safe, BULK2020 will now be held in April 2021, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
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BULK2020 Exhibition Director Simon Coburn said the decision to move the event was done to ensure the safety of attendees, exhibitors and staff.
“Moving the date back means attendees will be able to network and develop their businesses in a better, safer environment,” he said.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the government was taking these steps, after agreement from the National Cabinet, which includes the Prime Ministers and all Premiers and Chief Ministers.
“Make no mistake, the next few weeks and months will be tough for everyone, but we’re doing what is necessary to protect Victorians,” he said.
“Coronavirus will impact the entire Victorian community from business and schools – and that’s why a whole-of-government response is needed as we ramp up our response to this emerging pandemic.”
Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said the expanded powers of the Chief Health Officer will allow the State Government to better protect public health and give hospitals, GPs and industries the best fighting chance.
“This is the biggest public health challenge we’ve faced in our lifetimes – that’s why it’s so important that we have the right tools at our disposal to minimise the impact of this virus,” she said.
This article was updated on 16 March 2020.