New Years Revellers in Queensland Urged to Avoid Illegal Backyard Fireworks

Crowds watch a fireworks display during New Year's Eve celebrations in Brisbane, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2019. Dan Peled/AAP Image via AP

Queenslanders celebrating New Year’s Eve have been urged to leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy some of the many dozens of legal displays planned across the state.

The Brisbane night sky will light up with the Lord Mayor’s New Year’s Eve fireworks featuring a jacaranda purple theme.

The Gold Coast will set off about 30 tonnes of fireworks at Coomera, Broadwater Parklands, Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Coolangatta.

The displays are among more than 130 organised fireworks events planned for Saturday night.

“It wouldn’t be a New Year’s Eve celebration without fireworks, but we do not want to see the night ruined by serious injury or worse resulting from using fireworks illegally,” Queensland Resources Minister Scott Stewart said

“Queenslanders can enjoy a safe and spectacular fireworks display at South Bank, the Strand or at one of many other public New Year’s celebrations across the state.”

Stewart said Queenslanders should also keep an eye out for pets and animals as they can become frightened or distressed by fireworks noise.

Queensland motorists’ group RACQ is reminding people to plan their New Year’s Eve travel early to avoid being tempted to get behind the wheel or jump on an e-scooter if they’ve been drinking alcohol.

A general view is seen of fireworks after Brisbane was announced as the host city of the 2032 Olympics at the Brisbane Olympic Live Site in Brisbane, Australia, on July 21, 2021. Albert Perez/Getty Images

RACQ spokesman Tristan Vorias said 2022 marked the state’s worst road toll in more than a decade heading into the new year.

“We all need to make a commitment to do better, to go forward and bring down this shocking road toll,” he said.

Mr Vorias urged people planning to drink to leave their vehicle at home and use alternatives such as public transport, taxis or ride-sharing or stay at a friend’s place.

All modes of public transport across southeast Queensland will be free from 8 p.m. on December 31 until 5.30 a.m. on New Year’s Day, with additional bus and train services.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said some roads in the city would be closed in the lead-up to the main fireworks events at South Bank Parklands.

“If you are bringing the car, leave early in case of changed transport routes,” he said.

“There will also be several designated vantage points where you can catch a great view of the fireworks.”