Millions flock to Sydney each year for the world-renowned New Year's Eve fireworks, and preparations are well underway for another spectacular show. With significant changes set to improve public transport capacity, officials are bracing for what is expected to be the biggest public transport day of the year.
This year, for the first time, fireworks will be launched from the western side of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, aiming to offer spectators the same breathtaking views as those on the eastern side. Fortunato Foti, the creative director behind the vibrant display, expressed his confidence about the event going ahead, stating, "I was never in doubt the fireworks would go ahead," regardless of any earlier threats of cancellations due to potential IRTU strike action.
The City of Sydney’s executive producer, Stephen Gilby, warned the public about the challenges they might face on New Year's Eve. "There will be large crowds, road closures, and changes to transport," he said, advocating for attendees to plan their journeys thoroughly and arrive early to avoid congestion. Despite earlier concerns, Gilby embraced the logistics of the event following positive negotiations between the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and the NSW government.
Transport for New South Wales (NSW) has announced operational plans for non-stop trains over 46 hours, beginning on December 31 and running through to 5 AM on New Year’s Day. This ambitious project is described as their "biggest operation of the year," providing more than 1,000 additional rail services to accommodate the anticipated one million visitors expected to converge on the city to witness the fireworks.
"Approximately 3,600 Sydney Trains staff will work across the network on New Year's Eve to help passengers navigate the heavy footfall and assist with their transport needs," said Matt Longland, chief executive of Sydney Trains.
Meanwhile, the Foti crew has devoted extensive time and energy to ensuring the fireworks display will be the most ambitious yet, with plans for around 16 launch sites and 80 kilometres of wiring and cables connecting 16 computers to 32 firing panels. Georgia Rapisarda and Nicolette Anastasio, members of the Foti family involved with the fireworks preparations, reflected on their experiences, describing the chaotic yet exciting nature of working alongside their relatives. “It’s something we’ve known and grown up with all our lives. It’s really exciting,” Rapisarda shared.
This year's setup promises to dazzle, combining fireworks with multimedia elements, including music and projections, creating a kaleidoscope of sight and sound. "There’s going to be a lot happening around the harbour this year," Foti noted, highlighting continued innovations with the pyrotechnics. For the first time, four aerial platforms will be introduced to both the 9 PM and midnight fireworks displays, contributing to create new visual experiences above the water.
Foti International Fireworks, which has been responsible for Sydney’s dazzling displays for nearly 30 years, has prepared for this year by logging over 4,500 hours of cumulative work. The creative team has ordered additional fireworks for next year, indicating their commitment to ensuring future displays will remain just as spectacular.
All systems are set for what could potentially be the biggest and most accessible New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration yet. With early planning required by attendees, and the assurance from both the transportation officials and the creative team behind the fireworks, Sydney looks forward to welcoming the world to its vibrant harbour.
