The 2022 Penola Coonawarra Acoustic Music Gathering has been cancelled due to COVID-19.

The popular event was scheduled to take place at Penola’s McCorquindale Park from March 18 to 20.

PC Acoustic Music Gathering Committee Member Anne Miller said because their highest priorities were the performers, attendees and general community, they did not want to risk public health and safety.

The current COVID safety plan only allowed a quarter of the capacity in halls, which Ms Miller said made the event both financially unviable and may have caused a lack of energy and atmosphere.

All ticketholders will be reimbursed. People who choose to keep their accommodation are asked to advise the committee because they will consider hosting a music event if they receive sufficient numbers.

People who booked or paid for accommodation outside of TryBooking cannot be refunded, but Ms Miller recommended people use the opportunity to spend time in the Limestone Coast and sample what the region offers.

However, the Bendigo Bank Youth Mentoring Week will still go ahead during the second school term from May 16 to 20, with a concert in Rymill Hall on the Friday.

Tutor and accomplished singer-songwriter Nancy Bates will travel to schools to take classes and perform one-on-one tutoring. Schools and students can register for the free program on the Penola Coonawarra Acoustic Music Gathering website.

“We thank you for your attendance and contribution to the success of the Music Gathering in 2021 and we will continue planning for 2023,” Ms Miller said.

“We wish you all the best for the New Year and hope to see you again in 2023.”