Fireworks a no-go at foreshore locations on New Year's Eve

At this stage, there will be no fireworks displays along the foreshore at Redcliffe or Bribie Island this year on New Year’s Eve.

Fireworks are a regulated activity in the City of Moreton Bay by the State Government, to ‘protect public health and safety, and to minimise impacts on wildlife, the environment and local communities’.

We asked council if displays are no longer permitted along the foreshore at Redcliffe and Bribie Island, in particular.

A council spokeswoman says: “Approval to use fireworks in City of Moreton Bay depends on the location of the event, time of year and environmental factors like high tides.

“Where there is an impact to wildlife including at shorebird roost zones, fireworks are not allowed for a six-hour period, three hours before and three hours after a high tide.

“The pristine coastal areas of City of Moreton Bay are the crucial endpoint for several migratory bird species.”

Council’s website states that fireworks restrictions apply to the following areas:

• Pelican Park, Clontarf
• Bicentennial Park, Clontarf
• Crockatt Park, Woody Point
• Apex Park, Woody Point
• Redcliffe Jetty, Redcliffe Pde, Redcliffe
• Redcliffe Showgrounds
• Nathan Road Sports Ground
• Brennan Park, Bongaree
• Sandstone Point Community Sports Complex

The spokeswoman said there had been one application for fireworks at a New Year Eve event in City of Moreton Bay this year, but did not say where or if it had been approved.

Council’s website says: “fireworks are known to significantly affect migratory shorebirds, flying foxes and colonial breeding waterfowl.

“We recommend conducting a night assessment of your proposed location before submitting your event application. This helps you to identify any wildlife present. We also recommend that you review Council data and maps to make an informed decision about using fireworks at your event.”