The Southern Highlands annual Tulip Time festival in Corbett Gardens is to be transformed into an online virtual tour following uncertainty around public health orders relating to physical distancing and public gatherings.
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Wingecarribee Shire Council's general manager Lisa Miscamble explained the decision.
"After much deliberation the council has decided to re-focus this year's celebrations," she said.
"We considered numerous factors but agreed that the safety of our people remained our number one priority.
"This doesn't mean however that people will miss out on this year's fabulous displays."
Planted back in May, this year's floral displays pay tribute to Tulip Time's 60th Diamond Anniversary celebrations.
While Corbett Gardens will remain open to the public throughout the months of September and October, the event will not feature any traditional stalls or entertainment.
Council's coordinator of tourism Izabella Lane said the flowers would be featured via an online video at the height of the blossoms.
"Tourism remains a major economic contributor for our Shire and businesses," she said.
"This way our friends who may not be able to visit this year can still enjoy the blooms from home while looking forward to returning next year."
Ms Lane stressed that while plans were currently in place for Corbett Gardens to remain open the floral festival would look different from previous years.
"All visitors to the gardens will have to sign-in using a QR code, show some form of identification and wear a face mask," she said.
"Additional COVID measures may also be introduced at short notice as per recommendations from the NSW Government."
Visitor numbers will also be limited at any given time and a time restriction imposed.
"Our advice is that everyone should enjoy the online floral displays from the comfort of their own home this year," Ms Lane added.
"Rest assured Tulip Time will return in 2022, bigger and better, with plans already underway."
The online video footage of this year's Corbett Gardens Tulip Time display will be uploaded free to view in mid-September and all existing ticket holders will be refunded their purchases.
For more information on this year's Tulip Time Charity Partner, Can Assist, and how you can make an online donation, visit www.canassist.com.au/branches.
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