VANSITTART Park was awash with colour on Sunday night as thousands of revellers flocked to the venue to usher in the New Year.
The eighth annual community New Year’s Eve celebrations boasted family-friendly entertainment, live music and two dazzling fireworks displays to celebrate the countdown to 2018.
Organising chair Steve Toope said light patches of rain did not deter revellers and estimated around 5000 people flowed through the gates.
“Attendance was around the same as last year – we did a few head counts during the night and our best estimate is around 5000 people,” Mr Toope said.
“We had mostly annoying drizzle a few times but otherwise the weather was not too bad – it wasn’t too cold and everyone enjoyed themselves regardless.”
Mr Toope said the event was a resounding success, while feedback from attendees indicated the event may live to see another year.
The volunteer group behind the celebrations had previously warned the 2017 party at Vansittart Park could be the last unless the community rallied behind the event.
“We did a survey on the night and I haven’t tallied the results yet but every person I asked said there was a need to keep the event going,” Mr Toope said.
“At least a dozen people on face value said they would be willing to lend a hand in organising next year, which is promising.
“There was certainly an expression of interest from a number of people.”
Visiting from Adelaide and attending the celebrations with her young family, Mandie Phillips said she was impressed with the variety of entertainment on offer.
“We are in Mount Gambier this week visiting family – I’m surprised at how many free activities are available considering the low admission cost,” Ms Phillips said.
“The kids have had a ball and loved the early fireworks.
“They were very impressive – as good, if not better, than the New Year’s Eve fireworks at Glenelg.”
Mr Toope said there were no incidents of antisocial behaviour during the celebrations and no issues to speak of.
“We had no issues or problems – everyone was in good spirits but no one caused any dramas,” he said.
“It was exactly as we intended, a great atmosphere and a family-friendly environment.”
