The annual Coogee Sparkles New Year’s Eve Fireworks will not go as planned as Randwick Council canceled the event amidst health and safety concerns due to COVID-19. The Coogee Carols has been scrapped as well following a difficult decision to forego the traditional activities for the sake of the wellbeing of the community.
In a meeting on 27 Oct 2020, the Council resolved to have different Christmas activities spread out at beaches and town centres on different dates. The plan is to prevent events that will attract thousands of people to one site.
“We’re very disappointed to have to make this decision, but I hope people will understand the reason for it. Our enhanced program of Christmas activations will bring a bit of a joy and fun in what’s been a tough year and encourage people to stay local and shop local this festive season,” the mayor said in a statement.
Replacing the Coogee Sparkles, Coogee Carols, Seniors Christmas Concerts and Kingsford Noodle Market are the following:
- A Christmas lights trail showcasing the best lights and decorated homes;
- Christmas elves encouraging shopping locally in our town centres;
- A Christmas card competition for local children;
- Buskers and carol singers;
- Christmas chalk artwork;
- Public Christmas decorations such as Christmas trees, window displays, lighting in trees, street banners, giant ice creams and candy canes, photo set ups and decorative tree wrappings.
“Councillors unanimously resolved not to proceed with the iconic events this year as we cannot guarantee large crowds could gather safely given the ongoing threat of COVID-19 and Health Order restrictions,” the Council posted on Facebook.
