Newcastle’s annual New Year’s Eve foreshore fireworks and concert has been cancelled due to COVID-19.
The event attracted an estimated 30,000 people to the Foreshore last year, with Newcastle City Council saying it would be too high a risk to try and control that many people in the current climate.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said council will now focus on planning for smaller alternative celebrations throughout the city, pending any public health measures in place in late December.
“Through liaison with key stakeholders including NSW Police, the City has determined that the transport of thousands of people into and out of the Foreshore precinct would almost certainly lead to pinch points constituting a mass gathering where social distancing is impossible to maintain,” Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
“We look forward to announcing a different way to come together as a community and welcome 2021 with a variety of activations throughout the city and suburbs.
“This revised program will allow us to plan safer opportunities for the community to celebrate together with more space and smaller crowd numbers.”
Newcastle City Police District Commander, Detective Superintendent Wayne Humphrey APM says the risk of large gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic remains a high concern.
“New South Wales Police will respond to whatever decision the council makes regarding the event.
“However, the dangers posed by moving tens of thousands of people into and out of the Foreshore precinct for the 9pm fireworks display remains quite high in the current pandemic conditions.”
With a large number of COVID safe businesses operating through the city, it’s hoped the cancellation will help the transport network operate at a safe capacity and encourage celebrations in smaller, controlled groups at hospitality venues throughout the evening.
