The 60th Australian Pipe Band Championships, to be held in Maryborough, have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The championships were due to return to Maryborough for the first time since the inaugural event in 1961.
Originally scheduled to take place in April and postponed to April 2021, the event has been cancelled with bands from across the country missing out on the chance to compete at Princes Park for the title of Australian champions.
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The cancellation is the second in as many weeks for events in Maryborough, with the 160th New Year's Day Maryborough Highland Gathering also cancelled.
Maryborough Highland Society president Andrew Rae said having to cancel the event is disappointing for all volunteers, staff and the Maryborough community.
"A lot of time and money was spent by the Highland Society to try and bring this world class event to Maryborough," Mr Rae said.
"To be so close to having the event go ahead in April this year, only to postpone and still have to cancel is disappointing."
Pipe Bands Victoria president Tim McLeod said the group became increasingly concerned its bands wouldn't have been adequately prepared to compete.
"PBV is also concerned about the uncertainty of border closures and other travel restrictions, and the impact this may have on the championships," Mr McLeod said.
Forty six entries were registered to compete at the championships, with more than 1000 people booked into accommodation in Maryborough and surrounds.
Maryborough Highland Society general manager Malcolm Blandthorn said refunds will be issued for all registration fees paid.
"Victoria has the right to the 2024 Australian Pipe Band Championships and without wanting to pre-empt the decision of the board, I believe that Maryborough Highland Society may again apply to host this event," Mr Blandthorn said.
