Key Takeaways
- Canberra will host its largest ever New Year’s Eve fireworks display on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, with 50,000 people expected to attend.
- The fireworks display will feature two shows, at 9pm and midnight, launched from barges in the lake’s central basin.
- Queer nightclub Cube will close its doors for the final time on New Year’s Eve after 20 years of operation.
- Additional security measures will be in place around the lake, including hostile vehicle mitigation and increased police patrols.
- Police will be targeting anti-social behavior, underage drinking, and drink and drug driving during the celebrations.
Introduction to Canberra’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Canberra is gearing up to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 with its largest ever New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The event is expected to draw a crowd of 50,000 people to the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, where two fireworks displays will be launched from barges in the lake’s central basin. The displays will be synchronized with a soundtrack and will feature a range of fireworks, including special shells and shapes for the kids at the 9pm show, and a more intense display at midnight.
The Fireworks Display
According to Martin Brady from Fireworks Australia, this year’s display will be the biggest yet, with two more barges than last year and larger barges to accommodate the increased amount of fireworks. The displays will last for about 10 minutes each and will be accompanied by a synchronized soundtrack. The 9pm show will feature special shells and shapes, including smileys and love hearts, while the midnight show will be a more intense display with super loud and massive fireworks. Mr. Brady advised that the best vantage points will be anywhere with a clear view of the central basin, regardless of which side of the lake you are on.
Farewell to a City Institution
For some Canberrans, New Year’s Eve will be a bittersweet occasion, as it marks the final night of operation for queer nightclub Cube. After 20 years in operation, the venue will close its doors for the last time, and venue manager Seth Byrnes said it will be a big night to remember. The nightclub has been a home for the queer community, and Mr. Byrnes is expecting a huge send-off, with regular drag queens, drinks, and dancing. The final night will be a celebration of the venue’s history and a chance for friends and family to come together one last time.
Additional Security Measures
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, additional security measures have been put in place around the lake. According to Ross Triffitt from Events ACT, celebration hubs will be set up at various locations around the lake, featuring local DJs, food, and prime vantage points. Additional security measures include hostile vehicle mitigation and increased police patrols, with police targeting anti-social behavior, underage drinking, and drink and drug driving. Detective Acting Superintendent Brett Coutts from ACT Policing said that officers will be out across the city, and he hopes to see a repeat of the good behavior from last year’s celebrations.
Transportation and Safety
To encourage people to take public transport to the celebrations, bus and light rail services in Canberra will be free all day. Police will also be targeting drink and drug driving, and attendees are advised to plan their transportation in advance. With the increased security measures and police presence, attendees can expect a safe and enjoyable experience, and the city is gearing up to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome 2026 in style. Whether you’re attending the fireworks display, celebrating at Cube, or just enjoying the festivities around the lake, it’s sure to be a night to remember.