MidCoast will celebrate New Year
Published on 13 December 2021
Residents and visitors to the MidCoast region can bring in the new year with a bang, with fireworks displays in both Taree and Forster on 31 December.
An annual tradition enjoyed by generations of local families and visitors alike, New Year’s Eve fireworks displays will go ahead this year on the banks of the Manning River, Taree and along the Forster-Tuncurry foreshore.
“It’s important that the fireworks events go ahead this year, to give the community something to look forward to. It’s one way we can bring positivity and joy back to our region,” said Council’s Manager Growth, Economic Development and Tourism, Deb Tuckerman.
Planning for both events was paused until the State Government’s COVID Roadmap was made available, and plans have now been made to continue the tradition in the safest way possible. To ensure the events are COVID safe, live music and food will not be part of the events this year.
It's a great opportunity to stop in and support local restaurants and business on your way to the fireworks and enjoy a meal under the light show. Check out an array of eating options at https://barringtoncoast.com.au/.
“In past years, the New Year’s Eve celebrations have been funded through sponsorship from local businesses, however we realise there has been significant financial impacts on local businesses as a result of Public Health Orders,” said Ms Tuckerman.
“As a result, we’ve decided that Council will cover the full cost of the event this year.”
Taree fireworks will launch at 9pm from a barge in the Manning River, with best viewing from Queen Elizabeth Park and the river foreshore.
Forster-Tuncurry fireworks will be launched from a barge in Wallis Lake, south of the bridge, and can be viewed from various vantage points around the foreshore.
The lake provides a wonderful vantage point, however water users must adhere to the exclusion zones extending 300m from the launch site. Check the exclusion zone maps along with road closures and traffic restrictions for the events on this page.
Both events are alcohol free, COVID-safe and family-friendly and everyone is welcome to enjoy the fireworks from 9pm on Friday 31 December.