Warren Smith has described it as the "hardest decision I've ever had to make" with iconic Newcastle event Surfest cancelled for 2021.
The long-time Surfest coordinator said safety concerns and meeting the required COVID-19 protocols for the annual international competition ultimately proved too difficult during the global pandemic.
Smith made the announcement on Tuesday and said he was already "overwhelmed" by the response of sponsors to back Surfest again when it returns.
"It's the hardest decision I've had to make in the 35 years of Surfest," he said.
"We didn't want to make it, but it was the only one we could.
"We'll be back."
Surfest had been scheduled for March 8-14.
Event organisers also released a statement online.
After careful consideration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, organisers have reluctantly determined that Surfest Newcastle Australia will not run in February - March 2021.
"The major factor driving this decision is the paramount safety of the community, athletes and Surfest staff.
"While organisers are extremely disappointed there will be no Surfest in 2021, plans are already underway to see the event return in 2022 bigger and better than ever.
"Organisers take this opportunity to sincerely thank sponsors and the community for their understanding of this difficult decision and look forward to their continued support in 2022."
Lord Mayor of Newcastle Cr Nuatali Nelmes understood the call and said council would continue to support Surfest in the future.
"While it's terribly disappointing that COVID-19 means Surfest will not be held in 2021, City of Newcastle respects the decision of organisers who have made this incredibly difficult decision to protect community safety," Nelmes said.
"Large-scale events that attract international visitors and competitors take months and months of careful preparation and planning, so it's the right call to make this decision now.
"As a proud sponsor for the past 35 years, since its inception in 1985, City of Newcastle remains committed as the key major sponsor of this iconic event and we look forward to welcoming Surfest back to our amazing calendar of international, world-class sporting events in 2022."
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