Australia Day fireworks at Parramatta Park cancelled
A western Sydney council has scrapped its Australia Day fireworks in a “mark of solidarity” with bushfire-affected communities across the nation.
Parramatta
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Australia Day revellers heading to Parramatta Park won’t see a fireworks display but they can take comfort in knowing $40,000 will be donated to the NSW Rural Fire Service instead.
Parramatta Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer said the council’s donation follows the $10,000 it gave to the appeal last month.
“With continuing concerns about the threat of fires, and as a mark of solidarity with the many communities affected by the fires across the country, City of Parramatta Council has made the decision to cancel the fireworks component of this year’s Australia Day event,” he said.
“While I know the fireworks are always a popular part of our event, we feel it would be inappropriate to proceed given the current circumstances.”
Cr Dwyer encouraged residents to take advantage of the free 15-hour Australia Day program, which includes hot air balloons, performances from Sheppard, food stalls, appearances from Bananas in Pyjamas.
The public will have the chance to dig deep and donate money to the RFS at the volunteer-run fundraising stall, which is at the George Street Gatehouse, as well as write a message of thanks and support to firefighters.
The 2019 Parramatta Young Citizen of the Year, Pariselle Hughes, hatched the idea, which will help purchase equipment for fire stations across the state.
Cr Dwyer said it was an ideal opportunity to show support for Australians suffering through the bushfires.
“When things get tough, Australians stick together; let’s use this Australia Day to show our support and help those communities impacted by the devastating bushfires get back on their feet. I encourage everyone to embrace the Aussie spirit and lend a hand in any way they can,” he said.
The council is also liaising with the NSW Office of Local Government to support the Local Government Bushfire Recovery Support Group in co-ordinating offers of assistance from councils across the state to bushfire-affected communities.