Fireworks likely to sell out quick on Territory Day

Firework retailers have a crucial piece of advice ahead of this Territory Day. SEE WHAT THEY SAID

GO EARLY and go hard is the advice for people wanting to ‘blow shit up’ on Friday, with firework supplies for Territory Day lower than usual.

Days out from Cracker Night, retailers across the Territory are preparing to sell out quickly with 244 tonnes of fireworks arriving in town, 26 tonnes less compared to 2021.

Fireworks Australia director Martin Brady said stock was “definitely down” due to supply chain issues and expected to sell out by early Friday evening.

Mr Brady said pre-orders had opened for amateur pyrotechnicians to secure their crackers and anticipated locals and southerners alike to be rushing through the doors.

“I am sure people will be planning to gear up,” Mr Brady said.

“I hear stories of families who just come up here for cracker night.”

In accordance with NT WorkSafe, the public can purchase fireworks from 9am to 9pm on July 1 from licensed 98 retailers across the Territory. Fireworks can then be used from 6pm to 11pm.

Fireworks on offer include the package Shit Load, Cyclone Assortment and Backyard Bash.

NT WorkSafe has confirmed retailers will not be permitted to sell fireworks in Wadeye or nearby communities, citing public safety in consultation with police.

NT WorkSafe senior inspector Rob Fereday said it was crucial for Territorians to be safe and responsible with crackers on the night and with their disposal.

“It is a great night for family and friends (and) to keep it great we need to keep it safe,” Mr Fereday said.

“Make sure you read the labels … They actually tell you what the fireworks will do, whether it is a spinner or a shower of sparks.”

Mr Fereday said fireworks could be held until lunchtime of July 4, with fines to be handed out by police after. In 2021, three infringement notices were given.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast cloudier than usual conditions this week which may undermine cracker visibility.

“A cloud band across the Territory is expected to persist during the week and in some parts of the Territory cloud may impact visuals,” senior meteorologist Rebecca Patrick said.

Central regions in the NT may also experience rainfall and windy conditions.

NT Assistant Chief Fire Officer Joshua Fischer said the six hour window where fireworks were legal was his team’s busiest time of the year.

Mr Fischer said there were 315 grass fires between 6pm and 11pm last Territory Day.

“It places a significant strain on our small limited resources,” Mr Fischer said.

“Enjoy Territory Day, but do it the safe way.

“Because we will be absolutely stretched when and if fires do commence.”