Start planning for a free and safe New Year’s Eve around Sydney Harbour
Wednesday, 27 December 2023
The NSW Government is reminding everyone intending on celebrating New Year’s Eve around Sydney Harbour to start planning early, as spots around the foreshore will be in hot demand after the Minns Government removed priced tickets on NSW-government-owned sites.
Most of these vantage points will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with monitored capacity limits in place. Each vantage point will be closed once capacity is reached, so it is important visitors make their plans early, including transportation in and out of the site.
Fulfilling one of its early 2023 election commitments, the Minns Government has removed paid tickets at Barangaroo Reserve, West Circular Quay (including First Fleet Park), Campbells Cove, Hickson Road Reserve and locations in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and The Domain, including Mrs Macquarie’s Point for New Year’s Eve Sydney fireworks.
Other NSW Government public domain venues within Sydney Harbour will also be free, with access managed through a ticket system to ensure public safety. Tickets to these sites have been exhausted after being snapped up rapidly in the online ballot, and included the Cahill Expressway event, Bradleys Head, Strickland Estate, Clark Island, Me-Mel (Goat Island) and Shark Island.
City of Sydney will once again light up the Harbour with its renowned dazzling fireworks display at midnight on December 31. The night’s schedule also features an opening smoking ceremony, Harbour Bridge pylon projections and the 9pm Calling Country fireworks which are presented by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists through music, dance and illustration.
A full list of Sydney harbour vantage points, including ticketing information and availability, is available at www.sydneynewyearseve.com/vantage-points/
Two charities are exempt from the no-cost requirement – Taronga Conservation Society of Australia and the Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation – as the ticket revenue at these events is an important support for the conservation and scientific work of both NSW public institutions. Tickets have already sold out at both these events.
Acting NSW Premier Prue Car said:
“We have the most beautiful harbour and the most beautiful city, and every person should have the opportunity to enjoy the fireworks for free.
“New Year’s Eve shouldn’t be about raising revenue, it should be about families and friends getting together to celebrate and reflect on a year past and look forward to the year to come.
“Every little bit helps at this time of year – that’s why we have made it free for thousands of families to see in the New Year”
Acting Minister for Jobs and Tourism Kate Washington said:
“There are 49 different vantage points to view the Sydney Harbour fireworks, so I encourage everyone to plan early – visit the website, think about how you’re going to get in and out of the city and be prepared for crowds.
“There are so many ways to celebrate no matter where you live. Remember there are fantastic events that might be closer to home, including those run by local councils.
“Thousands of extra public transport services will be running throughout the night and into the early morning on New Year’s Day. While our network will be busy, the best option is to leave the car at home.
“New Year’s Eve is the largest event of the year, and for NSW Police, the safety of our community is always the number one priority. Responsible behaviour from those with tickets to the busy foreshore sites will make for a safe and memorable New Year’s Eve.”
City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said:
“Sydney is upbeat and ready for the biggest party of the year.
“More than a million people will make their way to the city and to the 49 vantage points around the harbour for Sydney’s free New Year’s Eve fireworks celebrations.
“I’d encourage revellers to get to the city early, pack food, water and sun protection and wear good walking shoes! New Year’s Eve 2023 promises to be a night to remember.”
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