News

More than 100,000 people are expected to flock to the centre of Perth on New Year’s Eve as the city prepares for its biggest fireworks display ever.

The City of Perth, together with Gina Rinehart’s Roy Hill, is pumping $500,000 into fireworks displays at Elizabeth Quay and Northbridge — and for the first time there will be fireworks at midnight on the Swan River.

There will be a 12-minute show for families at 8.30pm and another 15-minute fireworks production at midnight at Elizabeth Quay.

For anyone in Northbridge at midnight, there are rooftop fireworks.

“The midnight fireworks is the start of what we hope will become a highlight of Perth’s New Year’s Eve celebrations,” City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said.

“People have been wanting city centre midnight fireworks for years.

“And as I’ve said previously, we want the Perth midnight fireworks show to continue to grow into something that measures up to magnificent fireworks displays around the world, like Sydney.

“Perth is evolving into one of the great cities of the world, and our New Year’s celebrations — and fireworks — are now also evolving into something very special.

“Times are tougher for many, but we should always remember how lucky we are to be living in the best city in the best State in the country.”

Mr Zempilas said Elizabeth Quay was the prime location to view the fireworks, but there were other areas where people could view the spectacles.

“Such is the demand, we have expanded the footprint to be able to see the fireworks and hear the soundtrack,” he said.

“Elizabeth Quay is the prime location, but we have extended the audience areas from Barrack Square right around to Birdiya Drive in front of the Convention Centre.”

He added Barrack Square, in front of the Bell Tower, would have several food trucks and hospitality venues in that precinct would be open until late.

“There will also be good viewing across at South Perth and up at Kings Park,” Mr Zempilas added.

“The focus for our celebration is families and we want them to be safe.

“There will be extra toilets and security, additional event staff and a beefed-up police presence throughout the area.”

Cardile Fireworks owner Rob Cardile promised fireworks to remember.

“The displays are composed and choreographed to two special City of Light-themed soundtracks featuring custom narration,” he said.

“The displays will feature spectacular finales with large glittering and sparkling chrysanthemums covering the city skyline.

“The displays will be fired from a large 300sqm floating barge opposite Elizabeth Quay, with tens of thousands of custom pyrotechnic effects and aerial fireworks launching in both shows.”

The traditional Australia Day fireworks at Langley Park will continue.

Elsewhere across the metropolitan area, Mandurah will also host New Year’s Eve fireworks — at 9pm and midnight.

“This place is at its best over the festive season with our waterways sparkling and the foreshores alive with people coming together in celebration,” City of Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams said.

“New Year’s Eve is set to be another awesome night in Mandurah with our Western Foreshore alive with activities, the hugely popular Christmas lights trail along our Eastern Foreshore and into the marina, and of course, two spectacular fireworks displays.

“Bring on 2025.”

A City of Fremantle spokesperson said the port city would be hosting several events, including a block party in Paddy Troy Mall, while the Freo Arts Centre would host a concert on New Year’s Day.

Festivities in Albany include fireworks at 9pm and midnight, and food vans for a New Year’s Eve picnic at Peace Park.

The music line-up includes Joan & The Giants and Brandon Poletti and other support bands and a DJ from 9.15pm to midnight.