Council cancels Lorne fireworks

THE Surf Coast Shire has decided that Lorne’s New Year’s Eve fireworks will not return to the town after a two-year absence due to COVID-19.

The Shire’s general manager of place making and environment Chris Pike said the cost of outlay for the one-off spectacle could be better allocated to other priorities within the town.

“The rising costs for this brief event – which include security, fencing, lighting and medical resources – are a challenge with so many other financial pressures,” he said.

“It would cost council more than $50,000 each year to bring the fireworks back.”

Council’s focus will shift instead to prioritising tourism and events that encourage people to stay longer and care for the coast.

A statement from council cited its support of the lighting up of the Lorne Swing Bridge to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the town’s naming as an example of where its attention will turn.

“Coinciding with the Lorne Sculpture Biennale, the swing bridge lighting was one of a number of events that council assisted to support Lorne’s economy and vitality. This included the Biennale’s inaugural Sculpture Plus program and mass participation events such as Amy’s Gran Fondo and Great Ocean Road Running Festival,” Mr Pike said.

“This focus on events that bring year-round benefits to the town will continue into 2023.”