By Alesha Capone
Wyndham council will replace this month’s Australia Day fireworks with a laser light show, as a sign of respect to communities impacted by bushfires.
Wyndham mayor Josh Gilligan said the council made the decision due to the bushfires devastating parts of Victoria and Australia.
“As fires continue to burn around Australia and smoke sweeps across the state, council decided that proceeding with the planned fireworks would be insensitive to those in bushfire-affected areas, as well as those so bravely battling the blazes,” Cr Gilligan said.
“Another factor taken into consideration was the fact that when delivering a fireworks display, we request that CFA representatives are onsite to ensure safety at all times.
“By replacing fireworks with a laser light show, we are ensuring that local CFA resources aren’t tied up on standby on the night.”
Cr Gilligan said the “spectacular“ laser light show would take place on the Australia Day event’s main stage, lighting up Watton Street in “a truly impressive experience”.
“We also have a huge program of free entertainment and activities planned for the event including live music, movie and market stalls,” he said.
Cr Gilligan said the council was in contact with councils in bushfire-affected areas across the state to see how Wyndham could support them now and into the future.
“Wyndham City will continue to work with the Municipal Association of Victoria and Local Government Victoria to offer practical, on-the-ground support to affected regions, with the offer of resources, plant and equipment as needed,” he said.
Residents wanting to support relief efforts, including the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, can visit www.vic.gov.au/bushfireappeal
For details on Wyndham’s Australia Day event, visit: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/australiaday
