YEAR’S END

Fireworks to light up Torquay and Lorne on NYE

THE last days of 2017 are here, and locals and visitors alike can see the year off with a bang with fireworks in both Lorne and Torquay on New Year’s Eve.

The Lorne foreshore will host two fireworks displays – at 9.30pm and midnight, while Torquay’s fireworks, at 10pm, can be seen from locations that have a view of the skies above Torquay Surf Beach.

The Surf Coast Shire has reminded all New Year’s Eve revellers that public areas in the shire are alcohol-free, and there are no public events or entertainment in Lorne or Torquay.

New Year’s Eve is still expected to draw big crowds to some of the Surf Coast’s beaches, and the Boardriders Club Torquay and Earth Bottles have joined forces to clean up the expected mess at Torquay on January 2.

Participants are asked to meet at the Torquay SLSC clubhouse from 7.30am for Yoke beach yoga, with the clean-up to start at 8.30am, with lots of giveaways.

Following the clean-up, Ash Grunwald will be playing live at Bar 61 from 2pm. There will be raffle prizes and free entry for clean-up volunteers.

All proceeds raised will go towards the Clean Coast Collective.

Fireworks are not universally popular, and RSPCA Victoria is asking pet owners to ensure their pet’s identification details are up to date in the event they become lost during New Year’s Eve.

Society chief executive officer Dr Liz Walker said even the most docile of pets could become desperate to escape the fear of loud noises and flashing lights.

“Regardless of the steps pet owners take to make their animals safe and secure, it’s essential their pet is wearing identification, and that both microchip and registration details are up to date.

The easiest way to check your pet’s microchip details is to head to the website at petaddress.com.au.

“Having your pet microchipped gives you the best chance of it being reunited with you should your pet become lost or injured,” Dr Walker said.

“However, if your details are not up to date it will be difficult for someone who has your pet to find you.”

If you don’t know your pet’s microchip number, contact your veterinarian, council or animal welfare shelter, who can scan your pet and supply you with the microchip number.