To the Editor,

I would like to offer my wholehearted support for Kiama Council's decision to cancel the NYE Sky Show in Kiama for 2025-2026.

I concede that fireworks celebrations at New Year are a well-worn tradition, and they do give an ephemeral thrill to many in the community.

Nevertheless, I feel it just isn't worth it for Council to do the traditional thing this year, at a time when ratepayers are being asked to tighten our belts and respect the fact that our local government is relying on grants to deliver so many of the services we really do need.

Furthermore, I was very concerned at the suggestion moved by one Councillor and supported by three others at the Tuesday 19 August Council Meeting, that Council could funnel proceeds from the prospective sale of assets to fund this event on New Year's Eve.

Doing this would have smacked of the past days when Kiama Council's funds were not responsibly managed, and the fall-out from that would likely have been negative for Council's standing in the eyes of many members of the community.

I am grateful to the Mayor for his responsible casting vote.

There are surely other ways for people to get together and welcome in the New Year without relying on fireworks displays.

Sometimes well-worn traditions can usefully be re-considered.

Destination Kiama, surely you can be constructive and imaginative about this!

Roslyn Neilson

Jamberoo