After the unfortunate cancellation of the 2020 Wangi New Year’s Eve fireworks, plans are currently being formulated for an event in 2021.

And, it’s anticipated the display will surpass those of previous spectaculars.

For many years, the Wangi fireworks have primarily been organised and coordinated by the Wangi RSL Club, with funding support by numerous local sponsors – both corporate and individual.

While still staying involved, the organisation is now passing the baton on to the community.

Several individuals with previous peripheral links to the fireworks have assembled, with the aim of preserving the annual event.

Wangi Community Fireworks Incorporated has now been formally registered.

Administrative procedures are presently underway to establish this new entity – and enable a smooth transition in promoting 2021 New Year’s Eve festivities.

“A pool of residual funds carried over from 2020, plus proposed fundraising by the committee during the coming months, should ensure that the 2021 event is ‘bigger, brighter and more spectacular’ than in previous years,” Les McAllister said.

“The same pyrotechnics company that has delivered the show in the past will be engaged.

“It’s a comparable set-up to earlier years, with fireworks launched from a barge moored at the eastern end of Wangi Bay.

“The 9pm timing will be maintained on the basis of attracting the broadest community engagement.

“Vantage points around the Wangi Bay foreshore and on nearby Lake Macquarie environs are expected to be well-populated.”

Mr McAllister said Lake Macquarie City Council was on board, too.

“They’re directly supporting the event via sponsorship and assistance with logistics required to stage the fireworks,” he stated.

“The usual strong financial assistance from local clubs, retail and commercial outlets, and residents, is anticipated.”

To help with funding necessary to promote the fireworks, donation “buckets” are being made available at the Wangi RSL Club, Wangi Workers’ Club and several business houses.

Community support via donations at these venues is greatly appreciated and will assist the committee’s aim in staging a spectacular event.

It is understood that Wangi fireworks may well be the only such event on Lake Macquarie for 2021.

For any enquiries, contact Les McAllister on 0438 751 322.

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