Byron Bay

Countdown To New Years Eve Festivities in Byron Bay

FOR the first time in years there will be a countdown and fireworks to welcome in the New Year at Byron Bay.

DRUMMING IT UP: The Samba Blisstas will be back for New Year’s Eve.

FOR the first time in years there will be a countdown and fireworks to welcome in the New Year at Byron Bay.

Organised by Byron United, the extra festivities will focus on being low-key and family-friendly as they have in past years.

Byron United president Paul Waters said all activities would be held in Apex Park at the beachfront.

He said a stage would be set up with low key, ambient music and Arakwal dancers and the Samba Blisstas would also perform.

“There will be a countdown to midnight and a few fireworks, but we want to stress that the festivities will be low key,” Mr Waters said.

“There will be no ramped up New Year’s Eve as been bandied about in the press, we want to avoid attracting too many kids.”

Amusement rides will also be set up in the park, as well as a twilight beach market, dances and a laser light show.

Byron Shire Mayor Jan Barham said this year’s drug and alcohol-free event was being held in partnership with Byron United.

“The family-friendly evening will be a great way to end the year in one of the most picturesque parts of Australia,” she said.

“Sitting on the beachfront with family and friends as the sun goes down, is a wonderful tradition.

“It’s a great time to reflect on the wonderful place in which we live and be thankful.”

Cr Barham urged all residents and visitors to have a safe and responsible night.

“It can be very easy to over indulge with alcohol. It’s not worth putting yourself or others at risk,” she said.

Police, ambulance and St John’s officers will be in attendance at Byron Bay during the night.

Alcohol is prohibited in certain public areas including public roads, footpaths, parks, car parks and beaches.

The alcohol ban will begin at midday on December 31 through to 6am on January 1.

There will also be temporary road closures from 6am on December 31 to 6am on January 1.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PROGRAM

4pm: Twilight markets and amusement rides.

7pm: Arakwal dancers.

8pm: Local performers on stage.

8.30pm: Laser light show with musicians.

9pm: Samba Blisstas.

10.30pm: Goodrich Band featuring songs from the 80s.

Midnight: Fireworks.

source: Byron Shire News