Byron Bay’s Bluesfest has been cancelled as concerns grow over the highly contagious UK strain in the community which sparked health alerts in the coastal town.

The music festival was set to kick off from tomorrow.

But in a statement this afternoon, NSW Health said Health Minister Brad Hazzard had signed a public health order to cancel the event.

“This action is being taken to minimise the risk of the highly infectious COVID-19 variant of concern being transmitted in the local area, as well as across states and territories,” the statement read.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said it would be “disappointing for music lovers and the community”.

It’s understood organisers are working towards a new date.

EARLIER 

Byron Shire Mayor Simon Richardson told Neil Breen the town is putting its faith in the health advice.

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