Mayor's update: More than a fireworks decision

Published on 05 June 2026

There’s no doubt New Year’s Eve fireworks hold a special place in the hearts of many people across the Kiama LGA, and there has been so much interest in whether they will return this New Year’s Eve. 

Councillors will formally consider a range of options for our celebrations at our June meeting before any decision is made. 

As Mayor, I understand why people are passionate about this issue, and I love seeing families and visitors celebrating together. For years, our Sky Show celebrations have brought locals, families and visitors together for one of the busiest nights of the year. 

It is no secret that Council is watching its expenditure very closely.  

In many ways, the fireworks discussion reflects a much bigger conversation taking place across Council.  

We have a responsibility to carefully consider every significant expenditure and ensure decisions are made in the best long-term interests of our community. That’s why my preference is to adopt a longer-term financially sustainable model for our New Year’s Eve celebrations.

After several years of financial challenges, we are now entering a new phase. 

Thanks to the hard work of staff, councillors and our community, Council is in a far stronger position than it was just a few years ago. Importantly, we have achieved this current position without seeking a Special Rate Variation and while continuing to deliver many of the services our community values. 

The focus now is on finding smarter ways to strengthen Council’s financial future. That includes exploring new revenue opportunities, progressing the holiday parks expression of interest process, investigating future opportunities for key assets and continuing to build strong partnerships across government, business and the community. 

I also want to acknowledge organisations such as Kiama District Sports Association, which has worked collaboratively with Council to help achieve positive outcomes for the wider community. 

At the same time, Kiama continues to go from strength to strength as a destination. Last week’s incredible achievement of being named NSW’s Top Tourism Town for a third consecutive year and earning a place in the Hall of Fame is something our entire community can be proud of. 

Whether the discussion is about fireworks, tourism, infrastructure or community services, the principle remains the same: making responsible decisions today so we can continue delivering for our community tomorrow. 

That is the approach I will continue to bring to every decision before Council.