The function was to be held tonight, Thursday, March 19 at the Molong RSL Club.

However, council is strictly following Federal and NSW Government protocols and guidelines in relation the coronavirus pandemic and believes that in the interest public health and the need to minimise the impact and spread of the virus, it would not be in the best interests of community safety to proceed with the event.

Council apologises for the any inconvenience and understands people intending to attend the event, particularly artists who entered the prize, will be disappointed.

The winners of the $4,250 acquisitive prize and high school and primary school sections will be still be announced today, while the $1,000 People's Choice Award will be announced after the exhibition ends on Saturday, March 21.

Although the event to announce the winners has been cancelled, the exhibition will continue until Saturday and people are encouraged to view the artworks and vote for the People's Choice Award.

This will not breach the limit of 100 people at an indoor gathering.

Council has indefinitely postponed all other non-essential meetings and urges everyone to follow the protocols and guidelines issued by the relevant Federal and State Government health agencies in relation to the coronavirus pandemic.

Councils and Local Government are not the lead agency in this crisis, but Council emphasises it is essential everyone plays their part in minimising the spread of this virus.

Residents should go to the Federal and NSW Governments' health department websites for the latest coronavirus information, protocols and guidelines.

Cabonne Council will be introducing business continuity measures regarding its operations to try to ensure the safety of the public and staff while endeavouring to maintain as many Council services as possible.