Australia Day fireworks

Crank Up the Safety! The Fireworks Showdown Before Australia Day!

Australia Day is around the corner, and so are the hefty fines! Make sure you're celebrating safely and legally this year!

As Australia Day approaches, excitement is building across the nation, with communities gearing up for long weekend festivities, backyard barbecues, and, of course, dazzling fireworks displays. However, amidst the colorful anticipation, SafeWork NSW is throwing down the gauntlet on illegal fireworks use. Acting Deputy Secretary Trent Curtin has made it crystal clear: using unsanctioned fireworks can lead to hefty fines that will make you rethink your party plans!

The rallying cry from SafeWork NSW comes as a response to a worrying trend of amateur firework displays that put both celebrants and the environment at risk. In anticipation of a spate of illicit firework show-offs, local authorities are ramping up surveillance to ensure safety takes precedence over pyrotechnics. Curtin highlighted that safety is paramount, emphasizing that irresponsible faffing with fireworks can lead to serious injuries—far from the joyous spirit that Australia Day embodies.

While the fireworks are a much-loved tradition, it’s essential to remember that not all celebrations are worth the risk. Local councils and authorized organizations have been gearing up to provide licensed firework shows that promise to light up the skies safely and spectacularly. This means you can enjoy the joy and spectacle minus the law-breaking stress—win-win! Just be sure to grab your spot early; prime viewing locations have a habit of filling up faster than a sausage sizzle on Australia Day!

In an ironic twist, while people may be eager to set their own fireworks into the night sky, it’s estimated that around 70% of firework-related accidents occur during amateur displays. So, what's a partygoer to do? Save the cash for a celebratory brewski and let the professionals handle the fireworks!

Did you know that the first recorded use of fireworks dates back to around 7th century China? They were initially invented to ward off evil spirits! And here’s a fun fact for you: In Australia, the largest fireworks display happens in Sydney, where upwards of 1.5 million people gather to celebrate the New Year with a jaw-dropping show over the iconic Sydney Harbour! So, whether you choose to go big or stay safe, remember to celebrate responsibly this Australia Day!