It's the second year in a row Digger Day, which has become such an ingrained part of not only the Shoalhaven sporting calendar, but the veterans' community, has had to be cancelled.

Organised by the Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group (KPVCVBG), chairman Rick Meehan and president Fred Campbell took to social media to make the announcement.

"It is with great sadness we have to make this decision, " Mr Campbell said "but due to health concerns and ongoing restrictions around COVID we have been forced to cancel this year's event."

Mr Meehan thanked everyone for their support in what would have been the 10th anniversary of the now "iconic event".

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"Everyone knows about Digger Day and what it stands for and what it does for our veterans' community," he said.

"To our families, friends, supporters and sponsors we thank you for the ongoing support in 2021.

"It wasn't a decision we took lightly. But in light of what's going on we had to keep the community safe.

"We look forward to being back bigger and better for 2022."

The day, designed as a means to reflect on what our veterans have done for our country in all past wars and conflicts also raises awareness and funds for many of the issues which many veterans suffer, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Shoalhaven Rugby Club also take to the field against keen neighbouring rivals, Kiama.

"It's pretty gutting to have to make this decision," Mr Meehan said.

"There is so much work that goes into organising an event like this and now it's two years in a row we've had to cancel.

"But it's what we have to do. It is more about protecting our community and our veterans.

"We [the Shoalhaven] are currently in an orange zone and we want to maintain that. The community has done so well to maintain that and we don't want to do anything that could jeopardise it.

"We couldn't take the risk of anyone coming in from an outside area."

Mr Meehan said half of the VIPs attending this year's event weren't allowed to come or would then face restrictions when returning to their home states.

"Many would have to isolate or quarantine when they got back to their own states," he said.

"They were coming here to support us and it wouldn't be fair on them or their families and friends to make them have to do that."

Mr Meehan said Keith Payne VC, who was again among the many special guests this year, is aged 87 and "there was no way we could put him at risk."

"I feel for the community and in particular the veterans' community," Mr Meehan said.

"They are missing out on this popular event again.

"But we will be back next year."

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