Coronavirus has forced the closure of events and institutions around the country, as well as the cancellation of any indoor gathering of more than 100 people for the foreseeable future.
Now, Bunnings’ iconic sausage sizzles, frequented by thousands every weekend, are the latest dominos of normal life to fall.
The sizzles are run by volunteers to benefit local community causes, but a shortage of both volunteers and supplies (sausages are another victim of the current stockpiling frenzy) means they'll be on hiatus for the time being.
“We absolutely understand the important role these sausage sizzles play for thousands of people and that finding alternative fundraising opportunities at short notice isn’t easy,” Bunnings’ national director Michael Schneider said in a release.
Bunnings will be donating $500 gift cards to community groups with pre-booked barbeques to assist with their fundraising. All other in-store activities at every Bunnings location in Australia and New Zealand, including upcoming Easter celebrations, will be suspended until further notice too.
“There’s no doubt that our decision will disappoint some people in the community,” Schneider said. “We can’t wait to bring this much-loved community program back.”
