After a two-year hiatus, the Mount Gambier New Year’s Eve Festival is set to return to Vansittart Park and the community can ring in the New Year together once again.
Mount Gambier New Year’s Eve Festival committee chair Steve Toope said the committee had worked hard over the past year and members were pleased they could make the event happen.
Mr Toope said organising the event had not been easy and it was the hardest New Year’s Eve to organise for various reasons.
“The important thing is, it is back and families in the region can again enjoy a night under the stars,” he said.
“The NYE celebrations do have a high regard in the community as with all community events and it is important they all continue to happen and grow.
“It is part of the community glue.”
Mr Toope said the impact of COVID and insurance coverage issues had made organising the celebrations challenging.
“COVID has reduced the number of businesses we had used in the past, with a number not being in business,” he said.
“Insurance premiums have increased significantly and this has also knocked some out businesses.
“There needs to be a discussion on what could be an ongoing issue to see if there are solutions to the problem.”
Mr Toope said after lots of hard work and a few stops and starts, the committee had organised a variety of activities and entertainment that will cater for an all-age event.
“We will have live music, children’s activities, catering vans, alcohol sales and of course two fireworks displays, what would NYE be without fireworks?” he said.
Mr Toope said he was very grateful for the support of their sponsors who stepped up to the plate and enabled the event to be held.
“Without them there would be no celebrations,” he said.
Admission prices include $35 for a family of two adults and up to four children, $15 for adults and $10 for concession holders.
All events and activities inside the ground are free except food and drinks and people can bring their own food and nibbles but cannot bring alcohol into the event.
“The committee feels strongly we need to keep the event as affordable as possible so all who wish to attend can, the admission prices have not increased for the past five celebrations,” Mr Toope said.
Mr Toope said the event will be a safe and welcoming environment with security guards on duty and police performing regular patrols.
“As a community event the committee firmly believes the celebrations represent good value for money and hope the community again does support the event and come along and enjoy the night,” he said.
“As Chair, I wish to thank the committee, supporters and all the sponsors for their efforts and commitment and trust we can bring in the new year with hope and enjoyment.”
