COVID restrictions force cancellation of Broome Air Raid 80th anniversary events

All events scheduled to take place to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Broome Air Raids have been cancelled due to risks related to COVID-19 and ex-Tropical Cyclone Anika.

The Shire of Broome had planned a special ceremony at Bedford Park on the morning of March 3 to commemorate 80th anniversary of the bombings — the second deadliest attack on Australian soil during World War II.

An unveiling of the new Broome Air Raid artwork was also planned at Town Beach.

However State-wide level two COVID restrictions, which come into effect at 12.01am on March 3, limit outdoor private outdoor gatherings in a public space to 50 people.

The uncertainty surrounding ex-Tropical Cyclone Anika, which skirted the West Kimberley coast overnight and looks to be heading south west before making landfall near Sandfire also contributed to the decision to cancel.

A Shire of Broome spokesperson said in a statement it was a difficult decision to make.

“We acknowledge how disappointing this will be for the community who come together each year to acknowledge those lost during the events of 1942,” the spokesperson said.

“We hope to acknowledge this important time in Broome’s history with you all sometime in the near future.”