Sydney’s famous New Year’s fireworks show, known as one of the most stunning events in the world, is officially happening after a last-minute agreement on Tuesday between train workers and the government.
The event is expected to draw up to 250,000 people to the city, with safe transportation being a major concern as visitors need to return home after the celebrations.
The show faced potential cancellation after train workers threatened industrial action due to a heated pay dispute. The government raised concerns about how commuters would get home safely, creating uncertainty about the event.
However, a case scheduled for a hearing at the Fair Work Commission on Tuesday was withdrawn shortly after it began. This resolution has allowed the event to proceed as planned.
New South Wales Transport Minister Jo Haylen reassured everyone, saying, “Families can now have confidence they can get in and out of the city, businesses can plan ahead, and people can travel during this important time of the year.” She emphasized that Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and the Sydney Test cricket match are critical to the state and are now secured.
Toby Warnes, the state secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union, stated that the union never intended to disrupt New Year’s Eve celebrations. Pay negotiations between the government and rail workers are set to continue in the coming weeks.
