Drone NYE explosions
GOLD Coast Mayor Tom Tate is welcoming criticism of a radical plan to scrap the city’s New Year’s Eve fireworks in favour of a drone laser show, floating having a trial to compare the two in 2022.
He has suggested moving New Year’s firework displays, which scatter the coastline, in a more eco-friendly direction. The plan drew criticism from some members of the public and Gold Coast Central Chamber of Commerce president Martin Hall, who said it was “unnecessary” at a time of “unrelenting change”.
Bulletin reader Clint Dulieu, one of many to share their view, felt drone laser shows had lacklustre appeal.
“Drone shows are impressive but have no emotional impact. Fireworks stimulate more than just the visual senses,” he explained.
Reader Khodylee Ernst: “Why does everything need to become digital. There’s no substitute to fireworks. It’s a no.”
Others welcomed the plan, saying it would benefit pet owners whose animals are often spooked and run away due to firework displays.
Cr Tate is unphased by the critics. “I have simply put the idea out there,”
he said. “We are a city that is always reimagining our future. If councillors like the idea, we can explore it further. If they don’t, we won’t. I appreciate the comments – both positive and negative – as that shows people care.
“We may end up with a 2022 NYE celebration where there is an aerial fireworks drone display and fireworks, at two different locations. That way, we can test the response with, for example, a drone display at 8.30pm and traditional fireworks at midnight. It is up to councillors once the idea is brought before council in 2022.”