To say it's been a difficult year for Ted Baker and his family is an understatement. Their travelling carnival business came to a situation this year never before experienced by Mr Baker, who has been involved in the carnival business all his life.
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Mr Baker and his team haven't worked since March when the COVID lockdown shut state borders Australia wide. For a business that travels around Australia 12 months of the year, that almost spelled disaster.
"The JobKeeper has helped but it really only pays your truck regos and keeps you staying afloat," Mr Baker said.
"It's been terrific receiving it but it's really not enough."
For families and businesses like Mr Baker's travelling is not only their source of income but it's their way of life.
"It's really been tough this year," Mr Baker said.
"And sitting around doing nothing just does your head in for that long of a period.
"I've never had that long of a break before." Mr Baker said.
So when restrictions started easing a few weeks ago Mr Baker and his team coordinated in a matter of days to get the show back on the road.
"I was up near Tamworth, but we were all spread out. Forbes, Parkes, Holbrook and the North Coast basically," Mr Baker said.
"We were ringing each other and saying it was great to get moving again.
"It was just great to be doing something again." Mr Baker said.
The Spring Family Carnival will be held this weekend at Griffith Showground. It's free entry and free parking, with a $25 coupon deal for rides and attractions. It is a COVID safe event with hand sanitizer stations provided and social distancing enforced.
The Spring Family Carnival will open its gates to the first 500 entrants on Saturday from 10am. For more information head to their Facebook page.
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Kat is a former English teacher to international students and has taught all over the world. She is beginning a new career as a journalist with the Area News. Got something you want to chat about? She's all ears.
Kat is a former English teacher to international students and has taught all over the world. She is beginning a new career as a journalist with the Area News. Got something you want to chat about? She's all ears.
